CONTENT OF THE TEACHER’S MANUAL

I. ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY THE LESSONS

II. FINAL EXAM (STUDENT AND FACILATOR COPIES)

III. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT AND AN ESSAY

ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY THE LESSONS

Background Information on the Gospel of John

1. Compete the sentences listed below that discuss the authorship of this Gospel and the date of its composition.

a. There can be no doubt that Irenaeus accepted the apostle John as the author of this Gospel.b. The early church fathers accepted John as the author of this Gospel based on the testimony of

Polycarp.c. Since Ignatius knew of this Gospel, it must have been written earlier that A.D. 110.

2. Although the background of the title “the Word” may be thought to show the influence of Hellenistic (Greek) thought, its main inspiration comes from the Old Testament. True or False

3. More than any of the other Gospels, the Gospel of John emphasizes __________.

a. the Virgin Birthb. the Second Coming of Christc. the ministry of the Holy Spirit

4. John designates Jesus’ mighty works as signs in order to emphasize their chief function, namely, to substantiate His messianic claim and thereby illicit faith in Him. Fill in the blank

5. Complete the following “I AM” declarations.

a. I am the Light of the World.b. I am the Door of the Sheep.c. I am the Bread of Life.d. I am the Good Shepherd.e. I am the True Vine.

Jesus Christ: The Revelation of GodJohn 1:1-18

1. What does John tell us about "the Word" in verse 1 (printed below?)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)

John writes, "In the beginning was the Word." "In the beginning" is an unmistakable reference to Genesis 1:1 ("In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.") Thus, the Bible is telling us that when God brought the creation into existence, the Word was already existing. Note: "the Word" is a title for the Son of God whom we know in His incarnate state as Jesus Christ—just as words reveal to others our inmost thoughts, so the incarnate Son of God communicates and reveals God to us. Furthermore, John informs us that "the Word was with God." The Word was living in the presence of God throughout eternity. Finally, John tells us that "the Word was God." Note: the Greek text states this truth in the most emphatic way, literally reading, "God (is what) the Word was."

2. What else does John tell us about "the Word" in verse 14 (printed below?)

The Word became flesh, and lived (literally, tabernacled) among us. We saw his glory, his glory as the one and only Son who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)

John informs us that "the Word became flesh." Here is the wonder of the incarnation: God, the Creator, came into His creation, came into history, and identified Himself with those whom He had created in His own image—He became one of us. The Word "lived among us." The Greek text literally reads, the Word "tabernacled" among us. When He brought the people of Israel out of Egypt, the Lord lived among them in the wilderness in the tabernacle; in the Person of Jesus Christ, God lived among us in human form.

3. What do you think John means when, referring to "the Word," he writes, "The life was the light of men?"

In verse 4a John spoke about life in general terms, now he is speaking about one specific life: the life of Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God. This Life was "the light of men." In Scripture "light" is often used in the sense of knowledge, understanding, illumination (note Psalm 119:130). To give light is to impart understanding, to illuminate; to be light is to be an example. Because the Son of God is the Source of life, He is, therefore, the true Illuminator/Interpreter of life. Look at the life of the Lord Jesus Christ and you will discover the meaning of life, and you will see the way God meant for life to be lived.

4. What do we learn about the meaning of life when we observe the life of the Lord Jesus Christ? Note Jesus' testimony recorded in John 8:29 and John 17:4 (printed below)

The One who sent me is with me, he has not left me alone; because I always do the things that are pleasing to him. (John 8:29)

I have glorified you on the earth, by accomplishing the work that you have given me to do. (John 17:4)From Jesus' testimony recorded in John 8:29, we learn that life was meant to be lived in fellowship with God, a fellowship based upon obedience and submission to God —life was not meant to be lived for self-gratification. From Jesus' testimony recorded in John 17:4 we learn that life was meant to be lived for the glory of God—life was not meant to be lived for self-glorification.

5. In verse 16 John testifies of "the Word" (i.e.; the Lord Jesus Christ), "From his fullness we all received." Of whom is John speaking when he writes, "we all received?" Note verse 12 (printed below) What do such people receive from the Lord Jesus Christ?

But to all who did receive him, to those who believe on his name, to them he gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12)

Of whom is John speaking when he writes, "we all received?" He is referring to all those who receive the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior and who entrust their lives to Him (note John 1:12). What do such people receive from the Lord Jesus Christ? Literally, they receive "grace against grace," or "grace upon grace." In other words, those who believe in Jesus receive a superabundant experience and supply of divine grace that is renewed day by day, but only to be experienced in its full dimension in the heavenly kingdom of God.

6. What does John 1:1 tell us about “the Word?”

a. The Word was eternal. b. The Word was with God. c. The Word was God. d. The Word was a god.

7. “The Word” is a title for the Son of God whom we know in His incarnate state as Jesus Christ—just as words reveal to others our inmost thoughts, so the incarnate Son of God communicates and reveals God to us. Fill in the blank

8. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the Lord’s fellowship with His people at different times in history.

a. In the beginning the Lord walked in the garden of Eden with Adam and Eve.b. When He brought His people out of Egypt, the Lord lived among them in the wilderness in

the tabernacle.c. In the person of the Lord Jesus Christ, God lived among His people in human form.

9. When we observe the life of the Lord Jesus Christ, what do we learn about the meaning of life?

a. We learn that life is meant to be lived as a journey in search of truth.b. We learn that life is meant to be lived in fellowship with God. c. We learn that life is meant to be lived in obedience to God. d. We learn that life is meant to be lived for one’s own self-gratification.e. We learn that life is meant to be lived for the glory of God. f. We learn that life is meant to be lived for one’s own personal fulfillment.

10. When you look to the Lord Jesus Christ as He presents Himself in the Scriptures, what do you discover? Complete the sentences listed below.

a. When you look to Jesus you meet the person of God.b. When you look to Jesus you see the life required by God.c. When you look to Jesus you find the grace offered by God.

What Must a Minister Do?John 1:6-8,19-42

1. How is John the Baptist described in verse 6 (printed below) and what was his calling (see verse 7 printed below?)

There came a man, sent by God, whose name was John. (7) He came as a witness, so that he might bear testimony about the Light, so that all men might believe through him. (John 1:6-7)

John the Baptist is described as "a man sent by God." That is to say, he had a divine calling (note Luke 1:13-17). According to verse 7, a man sent by God is called to bear witness to the Light (the person of the Lord Jesus Christ). More specifically, the man of God is called to bear witness to the Light with the intent that men might believe in Christ through his witness. We read that John "came as a witness, so that he might bear testimony about the Light, so that all men might believe through him" (verse 7). A man sent by God presents Jesus to his hearers; and he does so in such a way that the hearers must respond to Jesus, they must deal with Jesus, they cannot simply ignore Him.

2. What answer does John the Baptist give the religious leaders when they ask him, "Who are you?" See John 1:19-23 (printed below)

Now this was John's testimony when the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, Who are you? (20) He admitted and did not deny; indeed, he admitted, I am not the Christ. (21) So they asked him, What then? Are you Elijah? And he replied, I am not. Are you the Prophet? And he answered, No. (22) Therefore they said to him, Who are you? Tell us, so that we may give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself? (23) He said, I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, Make the way straight for the Lord, just as Isaiah the prophet foretold. (John 1:19-23)

John the Baptist truthfully asserts, "I am not the Christ." He points men away from himself: he does not claim to be the Messiah, he does not claim to be able to personally save men and solve their problems, he does not encourage men to set their hopes upon him and exalt him—he faithfully points men to Jesus Christ. John goes on to identify himself as "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, Make the way straight for the Lord." (verse 23) There is a deep and genuine humility: John declares, I am not the Messiah. I am not the great prophet. I am only a voice. But there is also a deep and genuine certainty of being commissioned by God and bearing a message from God: I myself am only the voice, but mine is the voice that has a message for you from God—John recognizes himself to be the fulfillment of the prophecy proclaimed by Isaiah.

3. What does John the Baptist say about Jesus? See John 1:29 (printed below)

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

In verse 29 we see this man sent by God in action, we hear him proclaiming his God-given message: "Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" He deals with universal and eternal issues. He does not identify Jesus as merely a Jewish liberator, but as the Savior for the world. The man sent by God does not deal with men in a superficial manner, he compels them to come to grips with the realities of sin, guilt, judgment, and he points them to our only hope: Jesus Christ and His cross.

4. What was the result of John the Baptist's witness on this occasion? See John 1:35-39 (printed below)

The next day John was again standing with two of his disciples. (36) He looked at Jesus as he passed by, and said, Look, the Lamb of God! (37) The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. (38) Jesus turned and saw them following. He said to them, What do you want? They said to him, Rabbi (which, being translated, means, Teacher), where are you staying? (39) He said to them, Come, and you shall see. So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day; it was about the tenth hour of the day. (John 1:35-39)

Men are pointed to Jesus Christ: Jesus becomes the focal point (verses 35-36). Men seek after Christ: their attention has been focused on Christ and they become interested in becoming acquainted with Him (verse 37). As men seek out Christ they come to have a personal encounter with Him (verse 38). Such men come to commit themselves to Christ (verse 39). Note: the outline of verses 35-42 is one blessed result of

proclaiming Christ, but it is not necessarily a universal result, nor the only result. The Pharisees rejected John's message. King Herod opposed John, imprisoned him, and eventually had him beheaded.

5. What does John the Baptist tell us about himself and his ministry in verses 30-34 (printed below?)

This is he of whom I said, After me there comes a man who surpasses me; because he was before me. (31) I did not know who he was; but the reason I came baptizing with water is so that he might be revealed to Israel. (32) Then John testified, I have seen the Holy Spirit descending out of heaven like a dove; and he remained on him. (33) I did not know who he was; but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, Upon whomever you shall see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, he is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit. (34) I have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God. (John 1:30-34)

In verses 30-34 John confesses his dependence upon God. John acknowledges that he was sent to prepare the way for the Savior; he further acknowledges that he himself did not know who that Savior was. John had to rely upon God the Father to point out to him His Son so that he might fulfill his ministry of presenting Him to Israel and pointing men to Him. A man sent by God recognizes his dependence upon God; and this recognition makes him a man of prayer.

6. According to the commentary, who serves as a role model for ministers who desire to be faithful to their divine calling to be men sent by God?

a. John the Baptist b. The Lord Jesus Christc. The Apostle John

7. Match the passages listed below with what they tell us about the results of John’s ministry.

a. The next day John was again standing with two of his disciples. 36He looked at Jesus as he passed by, and said, Look, the Lamb of God! (John 1:35-36) Men are pointed to Jesus Christ

b. John’s two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. (John 1:37) Men seek after Christ

c. Jesus turned and saw them following. He said to them, What do you want? They said to him, Rabbi, where are you staying? He said to them, Come, and you shall see. (John 1:38-39a) Men meet Christ

d. They came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him. (John 1:39b) Men commit themselves to Christ

8. Which of the following statements accurately describe John’s understanding of himself and his ministry?

a. John is convinced that he personally can solve men’s problems.b. John has a deep and genuine humility. c. John is aware that he is bringing a message from God. d. John promotes himself as a great religious leader.

9. If a minister would follow the example of John the Baptist, like John, he will acknowledge his absolute dependence upon God; this recognition will cause him to be a man of prayer. Fill in the blank

10. Through the example of John the Baptist, the Lord has provided an outstanding role model and job description for any man who would be a true minister of Christ. Complete the sentences listed below that summarize the lessons to be learned from John and his ministry.

a. Like John, a minister must point men to Christ.b. Like John, a minister must always exalt Christ rather than himself.c. Like John, a minister must depend upon God.

The Anatomy of a ConversionJohn 1:35-39; Mark 1:14-20; Luke 5:1-11

1. To whom does John the Baptist point his disciples? See John 1:35-36 (printed below) What does this tell us about John?

The next day John was again standing with two of his disciples. (36) When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, Look, there is the Lamb of God! (John 1:35-36)

John points his disciples to Jesus, saying, "Look, there is the Lamb of God!" This shows that John recognized Jesus to be the Messiah. Furthermore, John recognized that his role was to bring men to Christ, rather than gathering a personal following of people devoted to himself.

2. How do John's disciples respond to John's words and what happens to them? See John 1:37-39 (printed below)

The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. (38) Jesus turned around and saw them following, so he asked them, What do you want? They replied, Rabbi (which, being interpreted, means, Teacher), where are you staying? (39) He said to them, Come, and you shall see. So they came and saw where he was staying. They stayed with him that day. Now it was about the tenth hour of the day when this occurred. (John 1:37-39)

They leave John and follow Jesus. As they follow after Jesus through the crowd, He suddenly turns around and inquires, "What do you want?" When they express an interest in being taught by Him, Jesus invites them to follow Him and stay with Him.

3. The incident described in John 1:35-39 apparently occurred in Jerusalem during the time of John's public ministry. Contrast this with the next incident described in Mark 1:14-20 (note verses 14-16 printed below).

Now after John was imprisoned, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, (15) and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is about to come; therefore, repent, and believe the gospel. (16) As he was passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. (Mark 1:14-16)

The incident described in Mark occurred at some later date. This incident took place beside the Sea of Galilee. Mark tells us that by this time John had been imprisoned. Notice that John's two former disciples (Andrew and Simon, see John 1:40) are not following Jesus. On the contrary, they have gone back to their former occupation as fishermen.

4. When Jesus once again sees Andrew and Simon, what does He ask them to do? See Mark 1:16-17 (printed below)

As he was passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. (17) Jesus said to them, Come and follow me, and I will make you fishermen who catch men. (Mark 1:16-17)

Jesus instructs them to come and follow Him. He tells them that He will make them fishermen who catch men.

5. Luke 5:1-11 (printed below) records yet another episode in the process of these men becoming Jesus' disciples. What contrasts do you find between this passage and Mark 1:14-20 (note verses 16-20 printed below?)

As he was passing along by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. (17) Jesus said to them, Come and follow me, and I will make you fishermen who catch men. (18) Immediately they left the nets and followed him. (19) Going on a little further, Jesus saw James the son of Zebedee, and his brother John, who also were in the boat mending the nets. (20)

Immediately he called them. They left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and followed him. (Mark 1:16-20)

One day as Jesus was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, with a multitude of people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, (2) he saw two boats lying by the shoreline. The fishermen had left them, and were washing their nets. (3) He got into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to go out a little from the land. Then he sat down and taught the multitudes from out of the boat. (4) When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, Go out into the deep, and let down your nets for a catch. (5) Simon answered and said, Master, we labored all night and caught nothing. However, because you say so, I will let down the nets. (6) When they had done this, they caught such a great amount of fish that their nets were breaking. (7) So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. They came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. (8) But Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. (9) He said this because he and all who were with him in the boats were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken; (10) and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, Fear not; from now on you shall catch men. (11) After they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:1-11)

In this third encounter with Andrew and Simon Peter, Jesus asks these two fishermen for the use of their boat. He then rewards them by providing a miraculous catch of fish. The previous incidents recorded in John and Mark report that these two men followed Jesus for what proved to be only a brief time. But now, following Peter's confession that he is a sinner, they become completely committed to Jesus—in their case they left everything and followed Him.

6. The introduction tells the story of Ed McGlasson’s conversion to Christ, a process similar to that which took place in the lives of Andrew and Simon Peter. Put into chronological order the events as they occurred in Ed’s spiritual journey.

a. Ed started out as a self-made man whose focus was on earthly things and worldly success. First

b. While at college, Ed was introduced to the gospel and he asked Jesus to come into his life. Second

c. Ed recognized God was calling him to change, but he resisted, still choosing to hold on to his sins. Third

d. God got Ed’s undivided attention by means of a severe knee injury. Fourthe. The Holy Spirit convicted Ed of his hypocrisy: he was president of a campus Christian

fellowship, but he was withholding part of his life from Christ. Fifthf. Ed confessed his sin and told Christ he wanted to serve Him 100 percent. Sixth

7. Why has God provided preachers like John the Baptist to point us to Christ? Choose the correct answer or answers.

a. God has provided preachers to point us to Jesus so that we may seriously consider Jesus as one possible option for our spiritual betterment.

b. God has provided preachers to point us to Jesus because Jesus is our only hope for salvation.

c. God has provided preachers to point us to Jesus because God wants Christianity to have as many followers as the other religions of the world.

d. God has provided preachers to point us to Jesus because the devil tries very hard to divert our attention away from Jesus.

8. Match the Bible’s responses to some common excuses men make for not coming to Christ.

a. “What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?” (Mark 8:36) I don’t want Jesus to disrupt my plans for my life.

b. “Seek first his (God’s) kingdom and its righteousness, and all these things (the necessities of life) will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33) I have too many problems to think about Jesus.

c. “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.’” (John 14:6) All religions are the same, I can choose any one of them.

9. What are the characteristics of genuine conversion?

a. The promise made to God that from now on you will try to be a better person.b. The confession to God of your own personal sinfulness. c. The total surrender of your life to Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. d. The commitment to attend church services every Sunday to worship God.

10. For Andrew and Simon Peter, commitment to Christ meant leaving behind their former occupation as fishermen. Not everyone must leave their present occupation to be committed to Christ, many Christians can serve Christ while continuing in their present occupation. True or False.

Jesus Christ: The Source of True JoyJohn 2:1-11

1. On what occasion did Jesus perform His first miraculous sign? See John 2:1-2 (printed below) What emotion do we associate with such an occasion?

On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus' mother was there; (2) and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. (John 2:1-2)

Jesus performed His first miraculous sign at a wedding in the village of Cana. Weddings are occasions of great joy and celebration. By choosing this venue to perform His first miraculous sign, Jesus was testifying to the fact that He is the Source and Giver of true joy.

2. How did Jesus perform this miracle? What did He use? How much wine did He produce? See John 2:6-8 (printed below) What message is He communicating to us by means of this miracle and all it produced?

Now there were six stone water jars, designated for the Jews' purification ritual, each able to hold about twenty to thirty gallons of water. (7) Jesus said to them, Fill the water jars with water. So they filled them up to the brim. (8) Then he said to them, Now draw some out, and bring it to the master of the banquet. So they brought it to him. (John 2:6-8)

In performing this miracle the Lord Jesus made use of six huge water pots (each capable of holding between twenty and thirty gallons of water.) He commanded that all the pots be filled to the brim (thus, approximately 150 gallons of water are now turned into wine.) Jesus wants us to understand that the joy of the kingdom of God—the joy that is found in Christ—is abundant and overflowing.

3. According to the chronology of John 1-2 (see the pertinent passages printed below), on what day did this miracle take place? Again, what is the Lord communicating to us by performing this act on this particular day?

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! (John 1:29)

The next day John was again standing with two of his disciples. (36) He looked at Jesus as he passed by, and said, Look, the Lamb of God! (John 1:35)

The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Philip, he said to him, Follow me. (John 1:43)

On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee (John 2:1a)

According to the chronology of John 1-2, this marriage celebration and this miraculous provision of new wine occurred on the 7th day—the day of the consummation of the week, the day representing the final state in the glorious kingdom of God. The fullness of joy can only be experienced when the Christian is received into the immediate presence of Christ and thereby enters more fully into the eternal state (note Psalm 16:11.) But as the Christian lives upon the earth, he experiences a measure of this blessed joy (note 1 Peter 1:8.)

4. When he tasted the wine, miraculously produced by the Lord Jesus, what did the master of the banquet say? See John 2:9-10 (printed below) What does this tell us about the joy and blessing Jesus offers?

When the master of the banquet tasted the water that had now become wine, but did not know from where it had come, (although the servants who had drawn the water knew), he summoned the bridegroom (10) and said to him, Everyone serves the best wine first; then, after men have become drunk, he serves the inferior wine. You have held back the best wine until now. (John 2:9-10)

Having tasted the water turned into wine, the master of ceremonies rebukes the bridegroom for holding back the best wine until last. By means of the quality wine He provided for the wedding celebration, the Lord Jesus is testifying to the authentic, quality joy, He bestows upon those who believe in Him. As the hymnwriter, John Newton, stated it: "Fading is the worlding's pleasure, all his boasted pomp and show; solid joys and lasting treasure, none but Zion's children know."

5. When Mary informed Jesus that they had run out of wine, how did He respond? See John 2:3-4 (printed below) Why do you suppose He gave Mary this initial response?

When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, They have no more wine. (4) But Jesus said to her, Woman, what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come. (John 2:3-4)

Mary initially viewed Jesus as nothing more than her natural son, her miracle-working son, whose task is to do her bidding. She informs Jesus that the guests have run out of wine; she implies that she is expecting Him to do something about it (verse 3). Mary meets with a stern rebuke from the Lord Jesus: "Woman, what do I have to do with you? My hour has not yet come." (verse 4) Note that Jesus simply calls her "Woman," not "Mother." Jesus wants Mary to realize that His true identity is that of being the transcendent Lord, not the subservient son of a human mother. As soon as Mary acknowledged what her relationship to Christ must be—as soon as she recognized that Christ is in charge and accepted His absolute lordship—she discovered His graciousness.

6. Match the various elements of our Lord’s first miraculous sign with their spiritual significance.

a. Jesus is the Source and Giver of joy that is experienced in a relationship with Him. The sign was performed at a wedding.

b. The joy that is found in the kingdom of God and in our relationship with Christ is abundant. Jesus produced 150 gallons of wine.

c. The joy offered by Jesus and found in a relationship with Him is authentic and better than anything the world can offer. The wine made by Jesus was of the finest quality.

7. Complete the sentences listed below that contrast the joy that is found in Christ with the joy that is found in this present world.

a. The Bible speaks about the pleasures of sin, those illicit joys that appeal to the sinful nature.b. But Scripture goes on to warn that those illicit joys are only for a season, they are

temporary.c. As Ecclesiastes tells us, even the legitimate pleasures and joys of this present life are

fleeting.d. Speaking of the joy He imparts, Jesus says, “Your heart shall rejoice and no one will take

away your joy.” (John 16:22) Jesus offers joy that is lasting.

8. Which of the following statements accurately describes the joy the Christian presently experiences in his relationship with Christ?

a. There is the joy of anticipating the great salvation reserved for us in heaven. b. There is the experience of heavenly joy as we hold communion with Christ. c. There is the full measure of heavenly joy poured out upon us all the days of our earthly lives.

9. What lesson did Mary have to learn?

a. Mary had to learn to look to Jesus for help.b. Mary had to learn to leave Jesus alone.c. Mary had to learn to submit to Jesus.

10. According to the commentary, what are some of the things that prevent a Christian from experiencing the joy that Jesus offers and that is found in a relationship with Him?

a. A lack of simple child-like trust in Jesus b. The refusal to let go of a known sin in our lives

c. Finding greater fulfillment in the pleasures of this worldd. Pursuing our own course instead of submitting to Christ

Christ's Demand for ConsecrationJohn 2:12-22

1. What does Jesus find when He enters the temple? How does He react? See John 2:14-16 (printed below) What does this tell us about the character of Christ, the Son of God?

In the temple courts he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the moneychangers sitting at their tables. (15) He made a whip out of cords and drove all the animals from the temple courts, both the sheep and the oxen; and he poured out the moneychangers' coins and overturned their tables. (16) To those who were selling doves he said, Take these things out of here; do not make my Father's house into a marketplace. (John 2:14-16)

Upon entering the temple courts, Jesus found the sacred precincts occupied by peddlers and money-hungry merchants. Upon witnessing this disgraceful spectacle, the Lord Jesus fashioned a whip and proceeded to cleanse the temple. What we see here is an act of the holy Son of God when His righteous anger has been aroused. When His eyes behold His Father's house turned into a common marketplace, instead of being maintained as a hallowed place of worship, when His eyes behold religious formality and the entertaining of sin, rather than purity of life and commitment of heart to God, the righteous indignation of the Son of God is aroused to action.

2. When the disciples witness the Lord's act of cleansing the temple, what comes to their minds? See John 2:17 (printed below)

His disciples remembered that it was written, Zeal for your house shall consume me. (John 2:17)

Upon witnessing the Lord's act of cleansing the temple, the disciples are immediately reminded of the words of Psalm 69:9, "Zeal for your house shall consume me."

3. As the words of Psalm 69:9 (quoted by John in verse 17 printed above) are applied to Jesus, what does this tell us about His character?

Our Lord Jesus Christ was consumed with an all-encompassing passion for God: love for God, devotion to God—the fulfilling of the great commandment (note Deuteronomy 6:5). When it comes to the glory and honor of God, our Lord Jesus Christ is consumed with holy and godly zeal. The example He sets for us in matters of religion is not one of cold formalism or pious indifference; it is, rather, that of holy passion for God and for His honor and glory, for His house and His kingdom, for His righteousness and truth.

4. In conjunction with what annual religious festival did the cleansing of the temple take place? See John 2:13 (printed below) What did this festival commemorate?

Now it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, so Jesus went up to Jerusalem. (John 2:13)

John informs us that this act of cleansing the temple took place at the time of the Passover. What was the significance of the Passover? It was the yearly commemoration of the Lord's miraculous deliverance of His

people out of the bondage of Egypt—which itself was a representation of their deliverance out of the bondage of sin and judgment.

5. One feature of the Passover was the eating of unleavened bread (note Exodus 12:15 printed below). What do you suppose was the spiritual significance of the removal of leaven from the Israelites' houses? What connection do you see between the removal of leaven and the Lord's cleansing of the temple?

For seven days you are to eat unleavened bread. On the first day remove the leaven from your houses; for whoever eats anything with leaven in it from the first day through the seventh shall be cut off from Israel. (Exodus 12:15)

The annual Passover was not only commemorating the Lord's miraculous deliverance of His people from Egyptian bondage, it was also the reminder that the people of God are to be wholly consecrated to their Lord and Savior. The removal of leaven from the Israelites' houses was intended to symbolically impress upon them the fact that they were called to be God's holy people, purged from the corruption of sin. The Lord's act of cleansing the temple was a literal purging of His house when it had become defiled with the sinful elements of greed and materialism. By means of this act the Lord was calling His people to purify their lives in anticipation of His coming so as to be able to entertain His holy presence (note Malachi 3:1b-3.)

6. What motivated Jesus to cleanse the temple?

a. His opposition to the exorbitant prices being charged by those who sold sacrificial animals.b. His zeal for His Father’s house and its consecration unto God. c. His obsession with cleanliness as He took exception to the filth that littered the temple

precinct.

7. Why were the people of God required to remove all leaven from their houses and only eat unleavened bread during the Passover?

a. This symbolized the Lord’s demand that His people be consecrated to Him. b. This reminded the people of the bitter experience their forefathers endured in Egypt.c. This taught the people to trust the Lord for their daily bread rather than rely upon their own

provisions.

8. One important application we as modern day Christians must learn from the incident of Christ’s cleansing of the temple is that the Lord requires His people to live lives that are consecrated unto Him. Fill in the blank

9. Complete the sentences listed below that indicate when and under what circumstances our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

a. When His eyes behold His Father’s house turned into a common marketplace instead of being maintained as a hallowed sanctuary, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

b. When He witnesses love of money and the pursuit of profit as one’s first priority instead of devotion to God, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

c. When He observes religious formality and the entertaining of sin rather than purity of life, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

10. Christ not only demands that we live consecrated lives, He also stands ready to forgive us when we confess our sins and He stands ready to supply His own grace/power/strength to enable us to build a life that is consecrated unto God. Fill in the blank

You Must Be Born AgainJohn 2:23-3:13

1. Now return to the main page and compare your Describe the man who approaches Jesus. See John 3:1-2 (printed below)

Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. (2) This man came to Jesus at night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you are doing, unless God is with him. (John 3:1-2)

In this third chapter of John's gospel we find a sincere and devoutly religious man approach Jesus in order to speak with Him about spiritual things. His name is Nicodemus. We are told he belonged to the Pharisees, one of the most religious sects in all of Judaism. Furthermore, we are informed that this man held a high position in Jewish society; he was a member of the Jewish ruling council. This would indicate that he was respected and held in high esteem by the community, recognized as a religious leader and a very pious man.

2. What is the first thing Jesus says to this man? See John 3:3 (printed below)

Jesus replied to him by saying, I tell you the truth, Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. (John 3:3)

Jesus immediately forces this man, Nicodemus, to come to grips with the necessity of the spiritual new birth. It is as though Jesus is saying, "You cannot even hold a meaningful conversation about spiritual things unless you have first been born again." By way of illustration: you would be completely out of place and at a loss in a foreign country unless you knew the language and something of the culture of that particular country.

3. How many times in this passage does Jesus refer to the new birth, or to being born again? See John 3:3,5,7 (printed below)

Jesus replied to him by saying, I tell you the truth, Unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God... (5) Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, Unless a man is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God! ...(7) Do not be amazed because I tell you, You must be born again. (John 3:3,5,7)

Three times in this passage the Lord Jesus solemnly repeats the necessity of experiencing the new birth if one would enter into the kingdom of God: verses 3, 5, and 7. Jesus teaches that unless a person is born again he/she is not able to enter into the kingdom of God (verse 5).

4. How does Jesus describe the new birth in verse 5 (printed below?) Note, also, Titus 3:5 (printed below)

Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, Unless a man is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God! (John 3:5)

...he saved us—not by works that we ourselves performed in righteousness, but by his mercy—through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5)

In verse 5 Jesus brings together the elements of new birth and cleansing and the operation of the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5 further explains these things: "he saved us—not by works that we ourselves performed in righteousness, but by his mercy—through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." Just as you take a bath to wash your body and make it clean, so the Bible here is speaking of a spiritual "bath" that will not only wash your soul, but will also make you a new person. When you "step out" of this "bath" you are not only made morally clean, you are made a new creation—it is a washing that regenerates you, a washing that causes you to be spiritually reborn or born again. This great washing and renewing is the work of the Holy Spirit: He drags the sinner out of the "mire" of sin, He plunges him into this holy "bath," and He presents him to God, clean and new. That is to say, the Holy Spirit causes the sinner to come to Jesus Christ and believe in Him. Jesus Christ Himself provides the "bath" that consists of the blood He shed at Calvary for the forgiveness of sins and the regenerating of the believing sinner.

5. What does Jesus tell Nicodemus in verse 6 (printed below?) What does this mean? What does it imply?

That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (John 3:6)

In John 3:6 Jesus teaches that there is no such thing as "spiritual evolution." Jesus declares, "That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." That is to say, a man cannot transform himself; he cannot change his own nature; he cannot cease being a sinner and convert himself into a saint. A man cannot undergo a self-induced metamorphosis, transforming himself from being "a caterpillar of sin" into "a butterfly of godliness." If you/I are to enter into the kingdom of God, what is required is nothing less radical than the spiritual rebirth—that operation of the Holy Spirit by which He causes us to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior and surrender ourselves to Him.6. Jesus declares that if you would enter into the kingdom of God and go to heaven when you die, it is necessary for you to be spiritually reborn/born again. Fill in the blank

7. Which of the following statements are true of Nicodemus, the man whom we meet in John 3?

a. He was devoutly religious.b. He was held in high esteem by the community.c. He displayed no small degree of humility.d. He possessed some degree of spiritual perception.e. He needed to be born again.f. All of the above

8. In John 3:6 Jesus teaches that there is no such thing as “spiritual evolution.” That is to say, a man cannot transform himself; he cannot change his nature; he cannot undergo a self-induced metamorphosis whereby he ceases to be a sinner and converts himself into a saint. True or False

9. Match the passages of Scripture listed below with their teaching concerning the new birth.

a. By his own volition he gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we may be a kind of first fruits of what he created. (James 1:18) The new birth is a sovereign act of God.

b. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy gave us new birth for a living hope (1 Peter 1:3) The new birth is a gracious act of God.

c. Jesus answered, I tell you the truth, Unless a man is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God! (John 3:5) The new birth is produced by the Holy Spirit.

10. In John 1:12-13 the Bible speaks of the new birth as an act of God that produces faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss what happens when this work of God takes place in a person’s life.

a. He or she recognizes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to save sinners.b. He or she acknowledges that they are a sinner who needs Christ to be their Savior.

c. He or she trusts in Jesus, completely surrendering themselves to Him as He graciously offers Himself to them.

Have You Placed Your Faith in Christ?John 3:14-21

1. In verses 14-15 Jesus calls Nicodemus' attention to an incident that occurred during the time of Israel's wilderness journey, an incident recorded in Numbers 21:4-9 (printed below). Describe the situation the people encountered (Numbers 21:4), their response to that situation (Numbers 21:5), and the consequence of their response (Numbers 21:6).

Then they traveled from Mount Hor along the route towards the Red Sea, in order to go around the land of Edom. The people became very discouraged in spirit because of the route they were obligated to take. (5) The people spoke against God and against Moses, saying, Why have you brought us up out of Egypt in order to die in this wilderness? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food! (6) Then Jehovah sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died. (7) The people came to Moses and said, We sinned when we spoke against Jehovah and against you. Pray that Jehovah would take the snakes away from us. (8) Jehovah said to Moses, Make a replica of a venomous snake and put it on a pole; when anyone who has been bitten looks at it, he shall live. (9) So Moses made a bronze snake and put it on a pole. And it happened that, if anyone was bitten by a snake, when he looked at the bronze snake, he lived. (Numbers 21:4-9)

During the course of their journey to the Promised Land of Canaan, the people of Israel encounter the disappointment of having to circumvent the land of Edom, because the Edomites refused to grant them permission to pass through their territory and the Lord would not allow Israel to invade the land of Edom Numbers 21:4). In their discouragement, the people complain against the Lord, accusing Him of negligence and unfaithfulness (Numbers 21:5). Consequently, the Lord sent venomous snakes (perhaps vipers) among the people; they bit the people, many people died, and the rest were subject to the same peril (Numbers 21:6).

2. Describe the means of salvation the Lord provided for His people after they had confessed their sin. See Numbers 21:7-9 (printed above under question #1)

The Lord instructed Moses to make a bronze replica of the venomous snakes. Moses was then to set up this replica on a pole—it was to be prominently displayed for all to see, it was made available to all as the means of salvation. But it was only effective as a cure to those perishing Israelites who looked at it, trusting that the Lord would use it as the means by which to save them.

3. What does Jesus tell Nicodemus about that Old Testament incident recorded in Numbers 21:4-9? See John 3:14-15 (printed below)

Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, in the same way must the Son of man be lifted up; (15) so that whoever believes in him may have eternal life (John 3:14-15)

Jesus tells Nicodemus—and us—that the salvation the Lord provided for Israel in the wilderness was a model of the great and eternal salvation from sin and from hell that He now offers to us in the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ, and His death on the cross as the only acceptable payment for our sins.

4. What does John 3:16 (printed below) tell us about the love of God?

...for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, so that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

It tells us that God loved "the world;" that is to say, the human race, mankind in our sinful condition as we resist and reject God's rightful lordship over our lives, as we break His holy commandments. This is the Bible's definition of "the world" (note Romans 5:8). God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son. Out of love for the world, God willingly gave His own Son, going so far as to send Him to the cross, going so far as to lay upon Him the awful sentence of condemnation, going so far as to make Him the atoning sacrifice for sin.

5. Why is it that the person who does not believe in Christ is condemned? See John 3:18 (printed below)

Whoever believes in him is not condemned; whoever does not believe has been condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God. (John 3:18)

John 3:18 declares that the one who believes in Christ is not condemned, but the one who does not believe is condemned already. Why is this the case? It is the case because he has rejected the only means of salvation, the Savior sent by God in His love (cp. Acts 4:12). If you have rejected the holiness of God, you can come to Christ to receive forgiveness and new spiritual life. But if you reject the mercy and love of God as it is offered to you in Christ, then you have no hope but to face the final and inevitable judgment. Note: Scripture declares that those who have not heard of the Savior are under the just sentence of condemnation, not because they have rejected the Savior, but because they are sinners who reject the righteousness of God in favor of ungodliness (note Romans 1:18,25).6. When the Old Testament people of Israel confessed their sin and pleaded for deliverance from the deadly poisonous snakes, what did the Lord do?

a. He immediately drove the snakes away.b. He pointed Moses to a medicinal herb that could counteract the poison.c. He commanded a replica of the snakes to be made and placed atop a pole for all to

see.

7. The means of salvation God provided for His people in the wilderness and the way He has provided by means of the atoning death of His Son Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary may be viewed as foolishness in the eyes of the world, but it is the true and only way of salvation. Fill in the blank

8. Which of the following statements accurately describe the love of God as it is presented in John 3:16?

a. God extends His love to mankind in our sinful condition as rebels who resist His rightful lordship over our lives.

b. God’s love is in response to man’s initial act of repentance and desire for a restored relationship with God.

c. God’s love is an active love, it is not merely an emotion; it is an emotion that moves God to action.

d. God’s love is expressed by the giving of His one and only Son to be our Savior.

9. Scripture declares that those who have not heard of the Savior are under the just sentence of condemnation, not because they have rejected the Savior, but because they are sinners who reject the righteousness of God in favor of ungodliness. True or False

10. Complete the sentences listed below that contrast several false views of faith with the biblical teaching of what it means to believe in Jesus.

a. There are those people who acknowledge that Jesus died for the world; since they belong to the human race they assume Christ died for them and that their salvation is automatic—this is the hope of salvation by presumption.

b. There are other people who maintain that they believe in Jesus when all they actually believe in are simply the facts about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—this is the hope of salvation by intellectual assent.

c. When the Bible speaks about believing in Jesus it means that person must receive Christ as his/her own Savior and Lord—this is salvation by personal acceptance.

Christ Must IncreaseJohn 3:22-36

1. What report do John the Baptist's disciples bring to him? See John 3:25-26 (printed below) What is their concern?

Now an argument arose between John's disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of purification rites. (26) So they came to John, and said to him, Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan, the one about whom you testified, he is baptizing and everyone is coming to him. (John 3:25-26)

John's disciples report to him that Jesus, by means of His disciples (note John 4:1-2), was also carrying on a ministry of baptism. Furthermore, "everyone is coming to him." John's disciples are concerned that Jesus is gaining a larger following than John. They are unaware of who Jesus truly is; they merely identify Him as "that man" who was with John on the other side of the Jordan River. John's disciples display a misguided zeal for John, failing to appreciate that his whole ministry was to prepare men for the Messiah, not to gather men around himself.

2. How does John respond to the concern expressed by his disciples? See John 3:28-30 (printed below) Note, also, John 1:19-23 (printed below)

You yourselves can testify that I said, I am not the Christ; rather, I have been sent ahead of him. (29) The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands by and listens for him, greatly rejoices when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That is my joy, and it is now fulfilled. (30) He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:28-30)

Now this was John's testimony when the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, Who are you? (20) He admitted and did not deny; indeed, he admitted, I am not the Christ. (21) So they asked him, What then? Are you Elijah? And he replied, I am not. Are you the Prophet? And he answered, No. (22) Therefore they said to him, Who are you? Tell us, so that we may give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself? (23) He said, I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, Make the way straight for the Lord, just as Isaiah the prophet foretold. (John 1:19-23)

John reminds his disciples of his own testimony, namely, that he is not the Christ (i.e.; the promised Messiah). On the contrary, his God-given calling was to go before the Messiah, preparing the people for Him and introducing Him to the nation of Israel. John compares himself to the friend of the bridegroom: the bride does not belong to him, she belongs to the bridegroom. When the bridegroom and his bride are brought together, it causes the friend of the bridegroom to rejoice.

3. How does John describe Jesus' identity in verse 31 (printed below?)

The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and he speaks of the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. (John 3:31)

Referring to Jesus, John declares, "The one who comes from above is above all...The one who comes from heaven is above all" (verse 31). By the grace of God, John had come to know and appreciate the true identity of Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ really is the One who "came from above" (He is God); and as such, "he is above all" (i.e.; all the pre-eminence rightfully belongs to Him). In his day, John the Baptist recognized this and responded accordingly, testifying of Jesus, "He must increase, but I must decrease." (John 3:30)

4. How did John view himself in relation to Jesus? See John 3:29 (printed below); note, also, John 1:15 (printed below)

The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands by and listens for him, greatly rejoices when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That is my joy, and it is now fulfilled. (John 3:29)

John bears testimony about him, crying out, This was he of whom I said, He who comes after me has surpassed me; because he was before me. (John 1:15)

In verse 29 John compares himself to the best man at a wedding and he views Christ in the role of the bridegroom: the best man's duty is to serve the bridegroom. As his testimony recorded in John 1:15 indicates, John was well aware of the fact that, although his ministry preceded Jesus in point of time, Christ and His ministry are first with regard to importance. In his Commentary, The Gospel According to John, Leon Morris, observes, John's testimony is a noteworthy exception to the norm of his day, "for in antiquity it was widely held that chronological priority meant superiority." In other words, the normal pattern was that whoever came after a teacher was inferior to that teacher and subservient to him.

5. How does John respond to the fact that "everyone is coming to Jesus?" See John 3:29b (printed below)

The friend of the bridegroom, who stands by and listens for him, greatly rejoices when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That is my joy, and it is now fulfilled. (John 3:29b)

When the friend of the bridegroom hears the bridegroom approaching and witnesses the bridegroom being joined to his bride, it causes him to greatly rejoice. In seeing Christ gain the pre-eminence that is rightfully His, John the Baptist describes himself as being filled with joy. John's sense of joy is well expressed by the hymnwriter, Frances R. Havergal, as she writes in anticipation of Christ's coming in glory: "O the joy to see You reigning, You, my own beloved Lord! Every tongue Your Name confessing, Worship, honor, glory, blessing Brought to You with glad accord; You, my Master and my Friend, Vindicated and enthroned; Unto earth's remotest end Glorified, adored, and owned."

6. In John 3:29 we find John the Baptist comparing himself to the best man at a wedding as he views Christ in the role of the bridegroom. The duty of the best man is to serve the bridegroom. Fill in the blank

7. John the Baptist rightly acknowledged his duty to serve Christ. Complete the sentences listed below that describe some of the ways in which we as Christians can fulfill our duty of serving Christ our beloved Lord.

a. We are to render service to Christ by submitting to His commandments.b. We are to render service to Christ by ministering to fellow Christians.c. We are to render service to Christ by faithfully representing Him before the world.d. We are to render service to Christ by offering His gospel to the lost.

8. Why does John the Baptist insist that Christ must increase and he must decrease? In other words, why does he insist that Christ must have the pre-eminence?

a. Because it was the custom for the succeeding teacher to gain a higher position than that of his predecessor.

b. Because he accepts the fact that everyone is turning to Jesus, therefore he graciously steps aside rather than challenging Jesus’ popularity.

c. Because he recognizes that Jesus has come from above, He has come from heaven.

9. The very fact that Christ will finally receive the pre-eminence and the glory that are rightfully His should fill the Christian’s heart with joy/gladness. Fill in the blank

10. In contrast to John the Baptist, who declared of Christ, “He must increase, but I must decrease,” so many others seek to usurp the pre-eminence for themselves. Match the persons listed below with their sinful attempts to usurp the Lord’s rightful position of pre-eminence.

a. The king said, Is not this great Babylon, which I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty? (Daniel 4:30) Nebuchadnezzar

b. Then they said, Come, let us build a city for ourselves with a tower whose top shall reach unto heaven; so that we may make a name for ourselves (Genesis 11:4a) The Builders of Babel

c. You said in your heart, …14I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High!” (Isaiah 14:13-14) The Devil

An Encounter with JesusJohn 4:1-42

1. How is the humanity and the humility of the Lord Jesus expressed in John 4:4-7 (printed below?)

Now it was necessary for him to pass through Samaria. (5) So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the piece of land Jacob had given to his son Joseph, (6) and Jacob'’s well was there. Jesus, being wearied by his journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour of the day. (7) When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, Give me a drink. (John 4:4-7)

Observe how the humanity and the humility of the Lord Jesus Christ are expressed in this passage. Jesus was wearied by His journey; that is why He sat down beside the well (verse 6). When a woman from the nearby town comes out to draw water from the community well, Jesus asks her for a drink (verse 7). Note: the state of weakness, exhaustion, and humiliation in which we find the Lord Jesus at the well in Samaria is just a preview of the great weakness, exhaustion, and humiliation He would endure upon the cross of Calvary, there offering His life unto God as the payment for sin so that He might offer unto us the forgiveness of sins and eternal life, even as He now is about to make that offer to this Samaritan woman.

2. How does the woman respond to Jesus' request (see verse 9 printed below?) What does Jesus now say to her (see verse 10 printed below?)

The Samaritan woman said to him, How is it that you, being a Jew, ask me for a drink—I who am a Samaritan woman? (for Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) (John 4:9)

Jesus responded to her by saying, If you knew what gift God offers and who it is who is saying to you, Give me a drink; you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water. (John 4:10)

According to verse 9, the Samaritan woman is taken aback by this humble request for a drink of water: here is a Jewish man asking a favor of a Samaritan woman! Even though we find Jesus to be weary, thirsty, exhausted, asking this Samaritan woman for a drink of water, listen closely to what He says in response to her inquiry: "If you knew what gift God offers and who it is who is saying to you, Give me a drink; you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water" (verse 10). Jesus' words emphasize the graciousness of God, as well as Christ's own ability and willingness to impart to us this gracious gift of spiritual life, entering into the life and fellowship of God forever.

3. When Jesus informs the woman that He can give her water that will forever quench her thirst (verse 14), what is her response (see verse 15 printed below?) What does Jesus now tell her to do (see verse 16 printed below?) Why do you think He gives her this directive (note verses 17-18 printed below?)

The woman said to him, Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water. (John 4:15)

Jesus said to her, Go, call your husband, and come back. (John 4:16)

The woman responded by saying to him, I have no husband. Jesus said to her, You have spoken well by saying, I have no husband; (18) for you have had five husbands, and the man with whom you are now living is not your husband. What you have said is true. (John 4:17-18)

The woman expresses a strong desire for this mysterious water of which Jesus speaks. But not that she is still thinking in physical terms, she wants this water so that she will not have to keep returning to the well. She does not yet appreciate the fact that Jesus is speaking about spiritual "water," the quenching of her soul's thirst. At this point her conversation with Jesus suddenly turns from the heights of expectation to the depths of this woman's personal life, exposing her sordid past. Jesus now becomes uncomfortably personal, He instructs her, "Go, call your husband" (verse 16). The woman immediately seeks to bring this topic to an abrupt halt with her response, "I have no husband" (verse 17). But Jesus will not let the matter rest there; He gently, but firmly, confronts this woman with her sins (verses 17b-18). When you encounter Jesus, you will find Him to be the Exposer of your sins—with the intention of bringing you to repentance and life!

4. How does the woman seek to steer the conversation away from her personal life and sinful lifestyle (see verses 19-20 printed below?) Are her efforts successful (see verses 21-26 printed below?)

The woman said to him, Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. (20) Our fathers worshiped on this mountain; but you say that Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. (John 4:19-20)

Jesus said to her, Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when you shall worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. (22) You Samaritans worship what you do not know, we worship what we do know; for salvation comes from the Jews. (23) But the hour is coming, and has even arrived, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth; for, indeed, the Father requires such people to be his worshipers. (24) God is a Spirit; they who would worship him must worship in spirit and truth. (25) The woman said to him, I know that the Messiah is coming (the one who is called the Christ). When he comes, he will inform us of all things. (26) Jesus said to her, I who am speaking with you am he. (John 4:21-26)

The woman's response at this point is that of respect for Jesus, but she still is not ready to honestly deal with her sins; thus, she says to Jesus, "Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet" (verse 19). The woman still does not truly know to whom she is speaking, and she now seeks to dismiss this whole matter, which has become very convicting, by asking a difficult question about religion (verse 20). But there is no way to elude the Lord Jesus Christ, every response the woman makes in her efforts to redirect the conversation results in a deeper encounter with God. Jesus warns that the days of public worship as it was practiced in the land of Israel are drawing to an end (verse 21). Jesus goes on to instruct the woman as to what is the essence of true worship (verses 23-24). The woman now suggests that rather than trying to deal with these "complex religious questions" (which are extremely convicting), they should wait for the Messiah to give the answers (verse 25). At this point Jesus reveals His true identity as the promised Messiah who has come to minister grace and forgiveness to sinners (verse 26).

5. After this encounter with the Messiah, what does the woman now do? See John 4:28-29 (printed below)

Leaving behind her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, (29) Come, meet a man who told me everything that I ever did! Can this be the Christ? (John 4:28-29)

After this encounter with the Lord Jesus, the woman left her water jar behind and ran back into the city (verse 28). She is so awestruck by the person of Jesus that she forgot the reason she came to the well in the first place. Upon entering the city she urges the whole community to "Come, meet a man who told me everything I ever did!" (verse 29) She is so awestruck by the person of Jesus that she forgets her shame and ostracism (a woman with her immoral lifestyle would have been shunned by the community) and compels everybody to meet this man for themselves.

6. Trace the development of the Samaritan woman’s understanding of Jesus’ identity as it occurs in this passage of John’s gospel.

a. Jesus is a tired man. Firstb. Jesus is a unique Jewish man. Secondc. Jesus is a mysterious man. Thirdd. Jesus is a meddlesome man. Fourthe. Jesus is a prophet. Fifthf. Jesus is the divine Messiah. Sixth

7. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss Jesus’ present condition and its significance.

a. The incident recorded in John 4 took place beside a well in Samaria.b. Here we find Jesus in a state of weakness, exhaustion and humility.c. Jesus’ present condition is a preview of what He would undergo at Calvary.d. Upon the cross Jesus would be subjected to the utmost weakness, exhaustion and

humiliation.e. Here Jesus offers Himself to the Samaritan woman as the Savior.f. At Calvary Jesus would offer Himself to God His Father as the atoning sacrifice for the sins

of His people.

8. Which of the following terms describe the woman as she has an encounter with Jesus?

a. Surprise b. Scoffing Unbelief c. Defianced. Strong Desire e. Guilt f. Rejectiong. Evasiveness h. Wonder

9. The Lord Jesus promises to satisfy the deepest need of our soul. Match His words to the Samaritan woman with their significance for us.

a. Every one who drinks this water will be thirsty again (verse 13) Material things cannot satisfy our soul.

b. Whoever drinks the water that I will give him shall never be thirsty again (verse 14a) Jesus alone can meet our deepest need.

c. The water that I shall give him shall become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life. (verse 14b) Jesus will dwell in us by the Holy Spirit.

10. What do we learn from the Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus?

a. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the One who fills you with wonder.

b. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be just like any other religious leader.c. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Giver of spiritual life. d. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Exposer of your sins.

Reverence Jesus as the Son of GodJohn 4:43-54

1. What kind of welcome does Jesus receive when He returns to Galilee? How is He viewed by the Galileans? See John 4:45 (printed below)

So when he came into Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all the things that he had done in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast; for they also had attended the Feast. (John 4:45)

When Jesus returned to the region of Galilee, the Galileans enthusiastically welcomed Him; because they had witnessed all the mighty works He had done in Jerusalem during the time of the Passover (verse 45). But it is important to realize that these Galileans are welcoming Jesus as a miracle-worker, they neither recognize Him nor reverence Him for who He really is; namely, the long expected Messiah, the very Son of God Himself.

2. Who approaches Jesus and what does he want? See John 4:46b-47 (printed below)

Now there was at Capernaum a certain nobleman whose son was sick. (47) When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son; for he was at the point of death. (John 4:46b-47)

In John 4:46-54 we read of a Jewish nobleman from Capernaum, who, upon learning that Jesus was in Cana, undertook the 20-mile trip to that city. Arriving in Cana, he persistently urged Jesus to accompany him back to his home to heal his desperately ill son. The Jewish nobleman discerned Jesus' power, but only focused on how that power might be employed for his personal benefit. The Galilean nobleman thought he was coming to merely a miracle-worker. That Galilean nobleman came imposing himself upon Jesus, seeking to dictate the terms of his relationship with Jesus, and seeking to define that relationship solely in terms of meeting his own personal needs.

3. What is Jesus' initial response to this man and his request? See John 4:48 (printed below)

Jesus said to him, Unless you see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe. (John 4:48)

Instead of submitting to the man's request that He accompany him to his home in order to heal his son, Jesus takes this opportunity to rebuke this man and all the rest of the Galileans. The Galileans received Jesus because they had seen all the things He had done in Jerusalem (verse 45). Their "faith" focused on His works, but did not go beyond those works. They welcomed this man, Jesus, because He was able to do mighty works that fascinated them and were of personal benefit to them. They failed to appreciate that these works were "signs" (verse 54)—intended to be the divine credentials that identify Jesus as the Lord and Messiah so that men might trust in Him and His Word. Theirs was not only a "faith" based on miracles, it was also a "faith" that was sustained by miracles—for this Jesus rebukes them: "Unless you see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe" (verse 48)

4. When the man continues to ask Jesus to come with him and heal his son, what does Jesus say? See John 4:49-50a (printed below) What is Jesus forcing this man to do?

The nobleman said to him, Sir, come down before my child dies. (50) Jesus said to him, Go your way, your son lives. (John 4:49-50a)

Jesus did not submit to the nobleman's request that He accompany him to his home in order to personally heal his son. Notice how Jesus deals with this Jewish nobleman: He puts the man into a position in which he has no other alternative but to believe the word that Jesus spoke to him and then act upon that word in faith (verse 50). Rather than accompanying the man to his home and there personally healing his son, Jesus simply speaks the word, "Go your way; your son lives"—the nobleman is thus put into a position in which he must accept Jesus' word, he has no other alternative.

5. How does the nobleman respond to Jesus' word? What happens as a result? See John 4:50b-53 (printed below)

The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and he departed. (51) While he was still on his way, his servants met him, reporting that his son was alive. (52) He asked them what hour he began to recover. They told him, Yesterday at the seventh hour of the day the fever left him. (53) The father realized that it was at the hour when Jesus said to him, Your son lives. Then he believed, together with his whole household. (John 4:50b-53)

That Galilean nobleman came imposing himself upon Jesus, seeking to dictate the terms of his relationship with Jesus, and seeking to define that relationship solely in terms of meeting his own personal needs. But in the hour of crisis this man was forced to rely solely upon the word of Christ (verses 49-53)—and in so doing, he came to know Christ in a far deeper way: he came to know Christ as the divine Savior and the Savior of his whole household.

6. Often times, like the Galileans whom we meet in this present passage of Scripture, we tend to view Jesus as our personal wonder-working, problem-solving servant, and fail to reverence Him for who He is, the Son of God. Fill in the blank

7. Which of the following statements accurately describe the attitude exhibited by the nobleman who approached Jesus?

a. He expected Jesus to do his bidding. b. He believed in Jesus’ divine wonder-working power. c. He solicits Jesus’ aid because he recognizes that the signs Jesus performed identify Him as

the divine Messiah.d. He was only interested in how Jesus’ divine abilities could be employed for his own

personal benefit.

8. Contrast the nobleman whom we meet in John 4 with the centurion who solicited Jesus’ aid and whose story is recorded in Matthew 8:5-10.

a. The nobleman merely viewed Jesus as a miracle worker. b. The centurion reverenced Jesus as Lord.c. The nobleman insisted that Jesus perform a divine work. d. The centurion expressed great confidence in Jesus’ mere word.e. The nobleman viewed Jesus as his divine servant. f. The centurion respected Jesus’ divine authority.

9. How did Jesus deal with the nobleman who requested Him to heal his son?

a. Despite the nobleman’s imposition, Jesus willingly did just what the man requested.b. Because the man had difficulty accepting Jesus’ terms, Jesus refused to heal his son.c. In order for his son to be healed, the nobleman was compelled to trust in Jesus’

divine word.

10. The greatest form of reverence and honor we can give to Jesus is to simply accept His word and act upon it. Fill in the blank

Look to Jesus for MercyJohn 5:1-30

1. Upon arriving at Jerusalem, where does Jesus immediately go? See John 5:1-6 (printed below) What does this tell us about our Lord?

After these things there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. (2) Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Hebrew is called Bethesda, and that is surrounded by five covered colonnades. (3) Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. (5) Now a certain man was there, a man who had been an invalid for thirty eight years (6) When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had been in that condition for a long time, he asked him, Do you want to be healed? (John 5:1-6)

John informs us that Jesus went up to Jerusalem on the occasion of one of the great religious feasts (a time when the city would be filled with devout religious worshipers). Then in verses 2-5 John immediately focuses our attention on the Pool of Bethesda (which being translated means, "House of Mercy.") This is the place where lay a multitude of the sick, the blind, the lame, the paralyzed; it is the place where many came with the hope of being cured; and others came to die. As John continues his narrative, focusing on the Pool of Bethesda, suddenly in the midst of this multitude of pathetic souls we see Jesus! Upon coming to Jerusalem, Jesus immediately singles out the place of greatest need, the place of greatest suffering. This shows our Savior's heart of compassion and His desire to minister the mercy of God to men.

2. Describe the man whom Jesus approaches. See John 5:5-7 (printed below)

Now a certain man was there, a man who had been an invalid for thirty eight years (6) When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had been in that condition for a long time, he asked him, Do you want to be healed? (7) The invalid answered him, Sir, I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred up. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me. (John 5:5-7)

As we return to John's narrative, we find that in the midst of this multitude of suffering, one individual is singled out as the object of our attention. He is a man who is helpless: he is in a state of paralysis, thus he cannot get to the healing waters; and he has no one to carry him down to those waters. He is also a man without hope: when Jesus asks him, Do you want to be healed? his only response is, I have no one to help me. Contrast this man's hopeless resignation with the expectant cries of the blind beggar recorded in Mark 10:46-48, or even the appeal for faith recorded in Mark 9:20-24.

3. What more do we learn about this man? See John 5:10-16 (printed below)

Therefore the Jews said to the man who was healed, This is the Sabbath, so it is not lawful for you to pick up your mat. (11) But he answered them, The man who healed me said to me, Pick up your mat, and walk. (12) They asked him, Who is the man who said to you, Pick up your mat, and walk? (13) But the man who was healed did not know who it was; for Jesus had slipped away into the crowd that was there. (14) Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, Look, you are healed; stop sinning, or something worse will happen to you. (15) The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. (16) Because he did these things on the Sabbath, this is why the Jews persecuted Jesus. (John 5:10-16)

Not only is this man a pathetic soul, he is also a very unlovable person. Some time after his healing, Jesus makes a special effort to find him in the temple to give him this stern warning: "Stop sinning, or something worse will happen to you" (verse 14). There is not always a direct correlation between sickness and personal sin (note John 9:1-3); but in this present case it appears that personal sin did play a major role in the plight of this particular man. More of this man's character is revealed through his interaction with the Jews. When the Jews charge this man with Sabbath-breaking because they observe him carrying his mat in the temple precincts, he immediately puts the blame on Jesus, telling the religious leaders that it was Jesus who instructed him to do so (verses 10-11).

4. How does Jesus respond to the Jews' challenging question, "Why do you do such things on the Sabbath?" See John 5:17 (printed below)

But Jesus answered them, My Father is working even until now, and so I am working. (John 5:17)

In response to the Jews' challenging question, "Why do you do such a thing on the Sabbath?" Jesus declares, "My Father is working even until now, and so I am working." Jesus is saying, I simply watch My Father in heaven, and then I do whatever I see Him doing. In one sense, God rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2-3)—that rest became the basis for the Old Testament Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11). But in another sense, God continues to work, even on the Sabbath. What is this work that God continues to perform, even on the Sabbath? Jesus defines God's continuing work as including His acts of mercy; the work of inviting men and bringing them into His own divine rest and peace (note Matthew 11:28). This miracle performed by the Lord Jesus was not only an act of mercy, it is also a demonstration of what God is like: a demonstration that God is a God of mercy.

5. How does Jesus describe His relationship to God His Father in verses 19-22 (printed below?)

Jesus therefore responded to them by saying, I tell you the truth, The Son can do nothing by himself, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, the Son also does in the same way. (20) This is so because the Father loves the Son and therefore shows him everything that he is doing. Indeed, greater works than these will he show him, so that you may marvel. (21) Just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son also gives life to whom he desires to give life. (22) Neither does the Father judge anyone; rather, he has entrusted all judgment to the Son (John 5:19-22)

In verses 19-20 Jesus emphasizes the fact that He is not working independently; on the contrary, He is revealing the very nature and character of God His Father—Jesus only does what He sees His Father doing. Out of love for His Son, the Father reveals to Him everything that He Himself is doing, so that the Son can

do the same works (verse 20a). Furthermore, the Father will show the Son even greater works, "so that men may marvel" (verse 20b)—marvel at the power, the glory, and the mercy of God. What are these "greater works" of which the Lord Jesus speaks? One is the work of giving spiritual life to men (verse 21), and the other is the work of carrying out the final judgment (verse 22).

6. Describe the man whom Jesus approaches at the Pool of Bethesda.

a. He was a humble figure who elicited sympathy from all who saw him.b. He was helpless, lying there in a state of paralysis. c. He was a man without hope. d. He was a man who exhibited faith in Jesus’ ability to heal.e. He was a man who needed to repent of his sins.

7. Jesus intentionally singled out this man and bestowed an act of mercy upon him in order to vividly communicate to us the message that anyone can look to Jesus for mercy because the Lord shows mercy to even the most undeserving. Fill in the blank

8. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the Jews’ response to Jesus’ act of mercy bestowed upon the paralytic.

a. When they saw the former paralytic carrying his mat, the Jews rebuked Jesus for violating the Sabbath.

b. Although they were extremely religious, it is tragic that they were guilty of being so spiritually blind.

c. They could not recognize and rejoice in the act of divine mercy that had been performed in their midst.

d. The neither perceived nor imitated the merciful character of the God they professed to worship.

9. By means of this act of healing—this display of mercy—Jesus is revealing one of the great attributes of God, an attribute the Lord also expects to be evidenced in the lives of His people. Match the passages listed below with the displays of mercy God expects us to exhibit.

a. I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in; 36I was naked, and you clothed me; I was sick, and you took care of me; I was in prison, and you came to visit me. 37Then the righteous will respond to him by saying, Lord, when did we see you hungry, and feed you? Or thirsty, and give you a drink? 38And when did we see you a stranger, and take you in? Or naked, and clothe you? 39And when did we see you sick, or in prison, and visit you? 40Then the King shall answer and say to them, I tell you the truth, Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me. (Matthew 25:35-40) Caring for fellow believers in need

b. In reply Jesus said, A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him and beat him and then left, leaving him half dead…. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he traveled, came to the place where the man was; and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion. 34He came to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them. Then he sat him on his own donkey and brought him to an inn and took care of him. …and Jesus said …, Go, and do the same. (Luke 10:30,33-34,37) Ministering to the needy who we encounter

c. Then his master summoned the servant and said to him, You wicked servant, because you begged me, I cancelled all your debt. 33Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you? 34His master was angry and handed him over to the jailers until he should pay back all that he owed. 35My heavenly Father will do the same to each of you if you do not forgive your brother from your heart. (Matthew 18:32-35) Forgiving those who have wronged us

10. What lessons should we learn from this incident in which Jesus healed the paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda?

a. We can look to Jesus for mercy because He shows mercy to even the most undeserving.

b. We can look to Jesus for mercy because he will never carry out the judgment of God.c. We can look to Jesus for mercy and then we must extend that same mercy to

others.

Do Not Harbor Prejudice against ChristJohn 5:31-47

1. When the Jews oppose Jesus for declaring Himself to be the Son of God, what evidence does He submit to support His claim? See John 5:32-33,35 (printed below)

There is someone else who testifies about me; and I know that his testimony about me is valid. (33) You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth... (35) John was the lamp that burns and shines; and for a little while you were willing to rejoice in his light. (John 5:32-33,35)

Jesus points to the witness of John the Baptist (verses 33-35). John the Baptist was a man sent by God (John 1:6-7), a man whose ministry was anointed with the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:15b). As such, John carried on a bright and powerful ministry throughout Israel, it was a time of revival: religion, and the coming of the long-expected Messiah, became the topic of concern to everyone; multitudes flocked to hear John's preaching and submitted to the baptism he performed. John testified that God had sent him to prepare the way for the Messiah (the Christ), and he pointed to Jesus as the Lamb of God (note John 1:29).

2. What else serves as a witness that bears testimony that Jesus is the Son of God? See John 5:36 (printed below)

But the testimony that I possess is greater than the testimony of John; for the works that the Father has given me to perform—the very works that I am doing—testify about me, testifying that the Father has sent me. (John 5:36)

The works that Jesus performed bore witness to Him (verse 36). John came, accomplished his ministry, then passed from the scene (being imprisoned by King Herod.) But Jesus declares that He has in His possession a witness that is greater than John. Jesus is referring to the works His Father has given Him to perform, these very works bear witness that Jesus is the Son of God, the Savior (note John 14:11).

3. To what other witness does Jesus appeal in support of His claim to be the Son of God? See John 5:37-39 (printed below)

And the Father who sent me has testified about me himself. You have neither heard his voice nor seen his form at any time. (38) Furthermore, you do not have his word living in you; for you do not believe the one whom he sent. (39) You study the Scriptures diligently, because you think that eternal life is found in them. Now they testify about me (John 5:37-39)

Jesus informs the Jews that God the Father Himself has testified about Him to them (verse 37a). Jesus grants that the Jews have never physically heard the Father's voice nor seen His form; yet, nevertheless, the Father has testified about Jesus to the Jews (verse 37b). The Father has done so by means of the Scriptures: the Scriptures are the very Word of God by which He reveals His Son, the promised Messiah, and describes His life and work—all of which find their fulfillment in the Person and work of Jesus Christ (note Luke 24:25-27).

4. According to Jesus, why is it that the Jews fail to accept the Father's witness about Him? See John 5:38-40 (printed below), note, especially, verse 38

Furthermore, you do not have his word living in you; for you do not believe the one whom he sent. (39) You study the Scriptures diligently, because you think that eternal life is found in them. Now they testify about me; (40) but you will not come to me so that you may receive life. (John 5:38-40)

Jesus has just declared that God the Father bears witness to Him by means of the Scriptures; but, Jesus goes on to say, "You do not have his word living in you; for you do not believe the one whom he sent" (John 5:38). God had spoken His Word to the Jews; but the Word of God was not a living, active force in their lives. In practical terms, it was little more to them than ink on paper; it was not a living testimony bearing witness of Christ to them. If there is a true reception of the Scriptures as the Word of God, there will also be a true reception of Jesus Christ, because He is the Word of God in the flesh, the living Person to whom the written Word bears testimony.

5. What charge does Jesus make against the Jews in verse 42 (printed below?) How does He support that charge? See verses 43-44 (printed below)

But I know you, that you do not have a love for God within you. (John 5:42)

I have come in my Father's name and you do not accept me; if someone shall come in his own name, you will accept him. (44) How can you believe, you who accept glory from one another, but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? (John 5:43-44)

In verse 42 Jesus confronts His hearers with the charge, "You do not have a love for God within you." That is to say, their life and their religion were not motivated by that sacred love for God that is the very essence of true religion (note Matthew 22:37-38). Christ now proceeds to present the evidence of this lack of devotion to God on the part of these people: if you really loved God, you would accept and embrace the

One whom He sent (verse 43a); you would recognize Jesus Christ to be the incarnate object of your love and respond to Him accordingly. Jesus goes on to exclaim, "How can you believe, you who accept glory from one another, but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?" (verse 44) Jesus is emphatically asserting that it is impossible for a man who is pre-occupied with the praises of men—and unconcerned about receiving the praise that comes from God—to commit his life to Christ.

6. According to the Gospel of John, why were the Jews of Jesus’ day prejudiced against Him?

a. Because there was a lack of evidence to support Jesus’ claim.b. Because the religion they had constructed left no room for Christ. c. Because, by His actions, Jesus violated the Sabbath.

7. What witnesses does Jesus present in support of His claim that He is the Son of God?

a. John the Baptist b. The Works Jesus was performing c. God the Father d. The Old Testament Scriptures e. The Teachers of the Lawf. All of the Above

8. Complete the sentences listed below that present the charges Jesus brings against the unbelieving Jews of His day.

a. They did not have the Word of God living in them.b. They did not have a love for God within them.c. They did not seek the glory that comes from God.

9. From the Jews’ rejection of Jesus, in spite of the evidence, we come to see that the greatest prejudice is the world is that which self-righteous people—people who view themselves as being acceptable to God because of the good works they have done—hold against the Lord Jesus Christ. Fill in the blank

10. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss why self-righteous people harbor such intense prejudice against Jesus.

a. Jesus, by His life as the Holy One of God, displays before us the righteousness God requires.

b. Jesus, by His teaching as the Son of God, expounds for us the true requirements of God’s law.

c. Jesus, by His identity as the Lamb of God, confronts us with our need for a Savior to bear our sins.

Jesus Christ: An All-Sufficient SaviorJohn 6:1-21

1. What question does Jesus ask Philip (see verse 5 printed below?) How does Philip reply (see verse 7 printed below?)

When Jesus looked up and saw a large crowd coming toward him, he asked Philip, Where can we buy bread so that these people may eat? (John 6:5)

Philip answered him, Two hundred denarii would not buy enough bread for each one to have even a little bit. (John 6:7)

Jesus asks Phillip, Where can we buy bread for these people? Phillip replies that two hundred denarii (equivalent to eight months wages) would not be enough money to purchase enough food for this great multitude. Philip is emphasizing the fact that even if there were some place to purchase food, they lacked the money to do so.

2. Why did Jesus ask this question? See John 6:6 (printed below)

Now he said this in order to test him; for Jesus himself knew what he was going to do. (John 6:6)

According to verse 6, Jesus asked Philip this question in order to test him. He wanted Philip, and the rest of the disciples, to appreciate the complete lack of human resources and their inability to personally handle the situation. Being confronted with these facts, would they turn to Jesus and place their confidence in Him and His ability to solve this dilemma?

3. Upon witnessing this miraculous sign of the feeding of the five thousand, how do the people identify Jesus? See John 6:14 (printed below); note, also, Deuteronomy 18:18 (printed below)

Now when the people saw the sign that he had performed, they said, Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world. (John 6:14)

I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. (Deuteronomy 18:18)

Jesus' miraculous provision of bread in this desolate place reminded the people of the bread miraculously provided for Israel in the wilderness. John informs us that shortly after this incident of the feeding of the five thousand in the wilderness, the people remind Jesus, "Our forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat." The people are further reminded of God's prophecy through Moses that the Lord will raise up a prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:18), and they correctly identify Jesus as the prophet who is coming into the world.

4. What do the people now seek to do and how does Jesus respond to this? See John 6:15 (printed below) Why do you think Jesus responded in this way?

Jesus, perceiving that they were about to come and take him by force in order to make him king, withdrew again into the hills by himself. (John 6:15)

As stated, the people correctly perceived that Jesus is the prophet who was coming into the world. But they mistakenly think that He will deliver them from the military and political power of Rome in the same way Moses was used by the Lord to deliver Old Testament Israel from Egypt. No doubt their intention was to march Him into Jerusalem at the time of the Passover, which, John informs us (verse 4), was approaching, in order that He might lead a glorious insurrection against King Herod and the Roman authorities. Jesus discerned that they "were about to come and take him by force, to make him king." Consequently, Jesus withdrew into the hills by Himself. Jesus recognizes who was seeking to employ all of this for his own diabolical purpose: here was another effort of the devil to seduce Jesus from following the course His Father had assigned to Him; an effort to seduce Jesus into becoming a popular military and political leader, saving His people from the tyranny of Rome, rather than enduring the cross in order to save His people from the tyranny of the devil and the righteous judgment of God.

5. What crisis are the disciples now facing? What does Jesus do for them? See John 6:16-20 (printed below;) note, also, Mark 6:45 and 48 (printed below)

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake; (17) they got into a boat and headed across the lake for Capernaum. It was now dark and Jesus had not yet come to them. (18) And the waters grew rough because of a strong wind that was blowing. (19) When they had rowed about three or three and half miles, they saw Jesus walking on the lake and coming near the boat; and they were afraid. (20) But he said to them, It is I; do not be afraid. (John 6:16-20)

Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat, in order to go on ahead of him to the village of Bethsaida, while he sent the crowd away...(48) Seeing them straining at the oars, because the wind was against them, at about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the water. (Mark 6:45,48)

Their instructions were to sail to Bethsaida (Mark 6:45) which was a short distance up the coast; there the disciples were to pick up Jesus and then cross the sea back to Capernaum. But by now darkness has fallen and Jesus has not yet arrived, so the disciples decide to head straight for Capernaum (verses 16-17). As they do so, they once again find themselves in a crisis situation: it was now dark, the sea was rising because of a strong wind, and they were heading directly into the gale—and Jesus was not with them. But Jesus again proves Himself to be the all-sufficient Savior: He saw them in their distress (Mark 6:48a) and He came to them, walking on the water (Mark 6:48b). There is no obstacle or circumstance that can separate us from our Savior or cut us off from His presence (Romans 8:35,38-39)

6. The introduction tells the story of Glenn Hack and his family. When you compare their experience with the incident recorded in John 6:1-21, what does this tell us about Jesus?

a. Jesus is the same today as He was yesterday—He still takes care of His people and meets their needs.

b. Jesus only took care of His people while He was on earth, now He is removed from us, confined to the distant realm of heaven.

c. Jesus is still aware of our needs and problems, but now He is only concerned about our spiritual well-being.

7. Match the passages listed below with the titles that best describe them.

a. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in need. (Psalm 23:1) The Christian’s confessionb. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with

thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6) The Christian’s confidencec. We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses … Let us

then approach the throne of grace …so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:15-16) The Christian’s privilege

8. In the peoples’ attempt to make Him king, Jesus discerned the hand of the devil trying to divert Him from His God-given mission. Match the items on the devil’s substitute agenda with the items on God’s agenda.

a. Through these people the tempter tried to seduce Jesus to defeat the Romans rather than…defeat the devil.

b. Through these people the tempter tried to seduce Jesus to assert Himself as a military conqueror rather than …submit to the cross.

c. Through these people the tempter tried to seduce Jesus to provide His people with political freedom rather than…peace with God.

9. Jesus’ spiritual discernment teaches us also to be spiritually discerning. Match the passages listed below with the descriptions that best fit them.

a. Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:12) Be alert to the spiritual conflict taking place

b. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean upon your own understanding. 6In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6) Be wise to always seek God’s counsel

c. My prayer is not that you would take them out of the world but that you will protect them from the evil one. (John 17:15) Be assured of our Lord’s intercession

d. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:13) Be diligent to ask the Lord for protection

10. Because Jesus is the all-sufficient Savior, what can we trust Him to do for us?

a. We can trust the Lord Jesus to combat the stratagems of the devil. b. We can trust the Lord Jesus to satisfy our every desire.c. We can trust the Lord Jesus to sustain us in times of crisis.

Do Not Be A MaterialistJohn 6:22-35

1. When the crowds re-gather around Jesus on the near side of the lake, what rebuke does He give them? See John 6:26a (printed below)

Jesus answered them, I tell you the truth, You are looking for me, not because you saw signs... (John 6:26a)

When the crowds re-gather around Jesus on the near side of the lake, our Lord rebukes them with these words: "I tell you the truth, You are looking for me, not because you saw signs." Jesus is saying, You are not flocking to Me because you have spiritual perception and have rightly understood the spiritual significance of the mighty works I have performed. You are not flocking to Me because you appreciate the fact that My miracles demonstrate that I am the divinely-appointed Savior who can give you entrance into the kingdom of God.

2. Why were the crowds looking for Jesus? See John 6:26b (printed below)

Jesus answered them, I tell you the truth, You are looking for me... because you ate of the loaves and were filled. (John 6:26b)

Jesus confronts the crowds with the truth, "You are looking for me because you ate of the loaves and were filled." Jesus is saying, You are flocking to Me not because you have spiritual perception, but because you had a physical experience—your belly was filled with the food I provided—and you are hoping for more of the same. You are flocking to Me because you view Me as someone who is able to satisfy your physical and material needs (John 6:2) and fulfill your political ambitions (John 6:15). Jesus is saying to them, You are flocking to Me because you have "felt needs" (you feel, you are acutely aware of, your need for food, healing, peace of mind, stability in marriage and family, success and prosperity), and you view Me as the one who can meet those needs.

3. What does Jesus counsel these people not to do (see verse 27a printed below?) How would you explain what He means?

Do not work for the food that spoils... (John 6:27a)

Jesus counsels them and us: "Do not work for the food that spoils." That is to say, do not devote your life to the losing cause of keeping your body alive. The men of this world labor for the food that spoils (it's perishable, it rots): they work long hours to purchase food, they consume that food, then they do it all over again, working more hours for more food to consume—and what does it ultimately profit them? That natural bread that feeds and sustains the physical body does not give life, it merely sustains physical life, enabling men to go back to work and continue the cycle throughout the years of their lives until they die.

4. What does Jesus tell these people that they should do (see verse 27b printed below?) Again, how would explain His meaning?

... work ... for the food that lasts for eternal life, the food that the Son of man will give you… (John 6:27b)

Jesus counsels those people and us to work "for the food that lasts for eternal life." We are to put our labor, our effort, our heart and soul, into obtaining the spiritual food that is imperishable and that provides eternal life (as opposed to merely sustaining this present earthly life for a few short years). We are to invest our lives in Christ and the kingdom of God, rather than in ourselves and the things of this present world that is passing away.

5. When Jesus exhorts us to "work" for the food that lasts for eternal life, is He telling us that we must earn our salvation? Note John 6:28-29, 35 (printed below)

Therefore they said to him, What must we do so that we may perform the works God requires? (29) Jesus responded to them by saying, This is the work God requires, namely, that you believe in the one whom he has sent... (35) Jesus said to them. I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. (John 6:28-29,35)

No; our Lord Jesus is not teaching that we must in any way earn or merit our own salvation. As He states in verse 29, the "work" that God requires is that we believe in Him (note, also, verse 35). What Jesus is speaking about in verse 27 is Christian discipleship. The Christian life requires devotion, dedication, discipleship. The initial act of receiving Christ as our Savior is the beginning of the Christian life; it is not the consummation of the spiritual life. Note further that Jesus assures us that our labor shall not be in vain,

for "the Son of man shall give to you" this spiritual food (John 6:27c). As we seek to cultivate the spiritual life, the Holy Spirit will develop that life within us (note Philippians 2:12-13 and Ephesians 2:10). Indeed, the spiritual life is cultivated and developed by means of the Holy Spirit, as opposed to our own human effort—we must surrender ourselves to Him and rely upon Him.

6. Match the passages listed below with the statements that describe the people whom Jesus addresses in the sixth chapter of John.

a. Jesus answered them, I tell you the truth, You are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. (John 6:26) They were only interested in satisfying their physical hunger.

b. And they said, Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, I have come down out of heaven? (John 6:42) They only perceive Jesus in His human identity.

c. The Jews therefore argued with one another, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? (John 6:52) They interpret Jesus’ teaching in a literal, physical sense.

7. The Lord Jesus exhorts us not to live like materialists—focusing our lives on the earthly things of this present world—rather, we are to focus on the spiritual; because the things of this present world are temporary, but the kingdom of God is eternal. Fill in the blank

8. Which of the following statements accurately describe Jesus’ assessment of what motivated these people to seek Him?

a. “You are flocking to me because you have spiritual perception and have understood the spiritual significance of the miraculous works I have performed.”

b. “You are flocking to me because you view me as someone who is able to satisfy your physical needs and fulfill your political ambitions.”

c. You are flocking to me in order to become my disciples; realizing that only I can deliver you from the judgment of God and grant you entrance into the kingdom of heaven.”

d. You are flocking to me because you have ‘felt needs’ and you view me as the one who can meet those personal, earthly needs.”

9. When Jesus counsels us, “Do not work for the food that spoils,” He is exhorting us not to devote our lives to the losing cause of keeping our bodies alive. True or False

10. What does Jesus means when He counsels us to work for the food that lasts for eternal life?

a. We are to earnestly pray that the Lord would always supply us with our daily portion of bread to sustain our bodies so that we will never go hungry.

b. We must believe in the Lord Jesus as our Savior and, relying upon His grace, dedicate ourselves to being His disciples.

c. We must make every effort to reform our lives in the endeavor to personally merit the right to enter the kingdom of heaven.

Be Assured that Christ is in ChargeJohn 7:1-14, 37-44

1. Verse one of chapter seven reports that following the conflict arising over the healing of the paralytic in Jerusalem on the Sabbath (an event recorded in John 5), Jesus confined Himself to Galilee. Why did He do so? See John 7:1 (printed below)

After this Jesus stayed in Galilee; he would not stay in Judaea, because the Jews sought to kill him. (John 7:1)

As noted, verse 1 of chapter 7 reports that following the conflict arising over the healing of the paralyzed man in Jerusalem on the Sabbath, Jesus confined Himself to Galilee. This verse states, "After this Jesus stayed in Galilee; he would not stay in Judaea, because the Jews sought to kill him." Was Jesus afraid? Did He run for His life? Was He seeking a safe retreat in far off Galilee? If such were the case, how could He be our Protector and Defender if He runs away and hides from His enemies? But such is not the case: Jesus did not retreat in panic and fear because He had lost control of the situation. On the contrary, precisely because He is in control He would not give Himself over to His enemies until the appointed hour. Note Jesus' testimony in verse 6a, "The right time for me has not yet come."

2. As the Feast of Tabernacles approaches, what do Jesus' unbelieving brothers challenge Him to do (see verses 2-4 printed below?) How does Jesus respond to them (see verses 6-8 printed below; note, especially, verse 8?)

Now the Jewish feast, the Feast of Tabernacles, was about to take place, (3) so Jesus' brothers said to him, Leave here and go to Judaea, so that your disciples may see the works that you are doing. (4) No one who wants to be known publicly does anything in private. Since you are doing these things, make yourself known to the world. (John 7:2-4)

Jesus said to them, The right time for me has not yet come; but any time is right for you. (7) The world cannot hate you; but it hates me because I testify that its works are evil. (8) Go up to the Feast; I will not go up to this Feast; because the right time for me has not yet come. (John 7:6-8)

As the Feast of Tabernacles approached, Jesus' unbelieving brothers challenged Him to go to Judaea—there to perform His miraculous works and so gain a following. The reasoning and challenge of these unbelieving men was as follows: Jesus should put on a great display of His mighty works before a national audience, in order to gain the recognition of the entire nation of Israel. How does Jesus respond to such a challenge? He says, "I will not go up to this Feast; because the right time for me has not yet come" (verse 8). It would be at another Passover Feast, one or two years in the future, that Jesus would reveal Himself by means of His triumphal entry in order to fulfill His work at the hour appointed by the Father. Precisely because Christ is in charge, He will not cater to any challenge to deviate from His pre-determined course—the course appointed for Him by God the Father.

3. What perplexity on the part of the people with regard to Jesus is expressed in verses 25-27 (printed below?)

Some of the people who were from Jerusalem said, Is not this the man whom they are seeking to kill? (26) And Look! He is speaking publicly, and they say nothing to him. Can it be that the rulers indeed know that this is the Christ? (27) However, we know from where this man comes; but when the Christ comes, no one will know from where he came. (John 6:25-27)

The people of Jerusalem express their perplexity: the Jewish leaders were seeking to kill Jesus (verse 25), but now they do not touch him (verse 26a). Can it be that they now recognize Him to be the Messiah? (verse 26b) But the question arises, How can he be the Messiah?—the Messiah will be a mysterious figure whose origins are unknown; but, they insist, they know the origins of this man: he is the son of Joseph and Mary! (verse 27)

4. Upon hearing Jesus' teaching, how do the people react? See John 7:40-43 (printed below)

When they heard these words, some of the crowd said, Certainly, this is the Prophet. (41) Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, What, does the Christ come out of Galilee? (42) Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the family of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David lived? (43) So there arose a division among the crowd because of him. (John 7:40-43)

Upon hearing Jesus' teaching, some of the crowd declares, "This is the prophet!" (verse 40) They are referring to the prophet whom Moses foretold would come (note Deuteronomy 18:15). Others declare, "This is the Christ!" (verse 41a) They rightly identify Jesus as the Messiah Himself, although they did not truly understand His mission. Still others said, "No, he cannot be the Christ, for the Christ does not come out of Galilee." The Old Testament Scripture prophesied that the Christ, the Messiah, would come from Bethlehem (note Micah 5:2).

5. In the midst of all this confusion and perplexity on the part of the people, how does Jesus demonstrate that He in fact is the Messiah? Compare John 7:10 and 14 (printed below) with Malachi 3:1b (printed below).

But after his brothers had gone up to the Feast, then he also went up—not publicly, but secretly... (14) At the mid-point of the Feast Jesus went up to the temple courts, and taught... (John 7:10,14)

...the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to his temple (Malachi 3:1b)

In the midst of all this confusion, Jesus is in control; quietly, but dramatically, He verifies the fact that He is the Messiah. During the time that this great feast was being celebrated Jesus suddenly appeared in the temple, just as had been prophesied about the Messiah (note Malachi 3:1b). Also, unbeknown to the people, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, He was of the lineage of David, and He is the incarnate Son of God (as was prophesied in Micah 5:2). We may be assured that Christ is in charge—despite the fact that confusion may reign among men or in our own lives.

6. Why did Jesus remain in Galilee and would not venture into Judea?

a. Because it was not yet the appointed time for Him to appear in Jerusalem. b. Because He feared the Jewish leaders who were seeking to kill Him.c. Because His ministry was accepted in Galilee, but it was not welcomed in Judea.

7. Match the passages listed below with the statements that describe how His enemies were completely stymied when the Lord Jesus did make His appearance in Jerusalem.

a. Some of the people who were from Jerusalem said, Is not this the man whom they are seeking to kill? 26And Look! He is speaking publicly, and they say nothing to him. (John 7:25-26a) They were reduced to silence.

b. They were seeking to arrest him; but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come. (John 7:30) They could not touch Him.

c. The Pharisees …and the chief priests sent officers to arrest him….45Then the officers came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, Why did you not bring him? 46The officers answered, Never did a man speak like this. (John 7:32,45-46) They stood in awe of Him.

8. Which of the following statements best describes the peoples’ view of Jesus?

a. They said that He was a good man.b. They maintained that He was a Sabbath breaker.c. They thought He was paranoid or even demon-possessed.d. They identified Him as the great prophet foretold by Moses.e. They confessed that He was the long-expected Messiah.f. They were confused and perplexed about His true identity.

9. In the midst of all the confusion, how did Jesus Himself verify the fact that He, indeed, is the Messiah?

a. He showed them His birth certificate, verifying the fact that He was born in Bethlehem.b. He suddenly appeared in the temple. c. He publicly announced that He was the Messiah.

10. Precisely because He is in charge, we should not expect Christ to cater to any challenge to deviate from His pre-determined course assigned to Him by God His Father—we should not expect Him to deviate from carrying out His purpose for His church collectively or for our lives individually, and from carrying out that divine purpose in His time and in the way He sees fit. True of False

Come to Jesus for Spiritual LifeJohn 7:1-10,37-39

1. What religious feast were the Jews celebrating? See John 7:2 (printed below) What was the significance of this particular feast? Note Leviticus 23:34,39,42-43 (printed below)

Now the Jewish feast, the Feast of Tabernacles, was about to take place (John 7:2)

On the fifteenth day of the seventh month Jehovah's Feast of Tabernacles begins, and it lasts for seven days ...(39) So beginning with the fifteenth day of the seventh month, after you have gathered the crops of the land, celebrate the festival to Jehovah for seven days; the first day is a day of rest, and the eighth day also is a day of rest...(42) Live in booths for seven days. All native-born Israelites are to live in booths (43) so your descendants will know that I had the Israelites live in booths when I brought them out of Egypt. I am Jehovah your God. (Leviticus 23:34,39,42-43)

As we enter the 7th chapter of John, we find that it is the occasion of the Feast of Tabernacles—the culminating feast of the Jewish year. The Feast of Tabernacles was the great feast of harvest, held at the time when the people of Israel had gathered in the fruits of the land (note Leviticus 23:34,39). The unique feature of this feast was the fact that the people were instructed to take leafy branches from the trees, and from these branches they were to construct thatched huts (or, booths) to dwell in during the week of celebration. The significance of this feast was to graphically remind the people that the Lord is the great Provider for His people. According to Leviticus 23:42-43, the people were to construct leafy, thatched huts so that they might know that the Lord made the Israelites to dwell in booths when He brought them out of Egypt—i.e.; even in the midst of the wilderness the Lord provided for His people shade and abundant fruit: He abundantly provided for them (note Psalm 78:14-16,23-25).

2. What does Jesus do on the last day of this feast? See John 7:37 (printed below)

Now on the last day, the great day of the Feast, Jesus stood and cried out, If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. (John 7:37)

Jesus uses this occasion—the great day of this great feast—to issue His great invitation: "Jesus stood and cried out, If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink." Note: Later in Israel's history, another element was added to this Feast of Tabernacles. On the last day of the feast a procession of worshipers would accompany a priest down to the Pool of Siloam (located within the city of Jerusalem). There the priest would fill a golden goblet with water drawn from the pool. The procession would then make its way back to the temple where the priest would be joined by a second priest carrying a cup of wine. The two priests then ascended the steps of the altar and poured out the water and the wine at the base of the altar; symbolizing God's gracious provisions in the wilderness and praying for His continued provisions in the future (The Gospel of John, Leon Morris, pp.417-421; The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, Alfred Edersheim, pp.156-163). By making His great invitation at the climax of this feast, Jesus wants us to see that He Himself is the fulfillment of all that the Jewish feasts represented—they all find their meaning and fulfillment in Him and the spiritual life He provides.

3. To whom does Jesus extend His invitation recorded in verse 37 (printed above under question #2?)

Jesus cries out, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me, and drink!" Jesus’ invitation is extended to whomever is spiritually thirsty—thirsty for God.

4. What does Jesus counsel spiritually thirsty people to do? See, again, John 7:37

Jesus counsels spiritually thirsty people to come directly to Him. We are not counseled to join a church, or perform certain religious rituals, or make a confession to a priest or minister, or look within ourselves, or get in harmony with nature, or seek to make ourselves acceptable to God. We are counseled, invited, and urged to come immediately and directly to Jesus, and entrust ourselves to Him.

5. What promise does Jesus make to all those who accept His invitation and come to Him? See John 7:38-39 (printed below)

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, From within him shall flow rivers of living water. (39) Now he was referring to the Holy Spirit, whom they who believed in him were to receive; for the Spirit had not yet been given; because Jesus had not yet been glorified. (John 7:38-39)

It is important to understand that Jesus' promise is made exclusively to the person who trusts in Him: "Whoever believes in me, as the scripture has said, From within him shall flow rivers of living water" (verse 38). Verse 39 explains that Jesus is speaking about the Holy Spirit and His presence in the Christian's life. It is the Holy Spirit who communicates to the Christian the spiritual life. When you entrust your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, He enters into your soul and takes up His residence in your heart by the Person of His Holy Spirit (note Romans 8:10-11). As you trust in Christ on a daily basis—relying upon Him, yielding yourself to Him, resting in Him—the Holy Spirit will increasingly cause the spiritual life to flow out of your heart and through your life like rivers of living water.

6. What does Jesus counsel spiritually thirsty people to do?

a. They are to join a local church.b. They are to make confession to a priest or minister.c. They are to come directly to Jesus. d. They are to get in harmony with nature.e. They are to strive to make themselves acceptable to God.

7. Buddha, Mohammed, and the many other religious teachers offer to teach us a way of life—a way of self-discipline that is intended to result in self-purification and hopefully acceptance with God—but the Lord Jesus Christ offers us Himself. Fill in the blank

8. Match the Scripture passages listed below with what they tell us about Christ.

a. Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, except by me. (John 14:6) Jesus is the only one who can bring us to God.

b. He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5) Jesus is the sacrifice that atones for our sins.

c. He is able to save to the fullest extent those who draw near to God through him, since he ever lives to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:25) Jesus is our intercessor before God His Father.

9. In verse 38 Jesus promises that whoever believes in Him shall experience “rivers of living water” welling up from within him. Verse 39 explains that Jesus is speaking about the Holy Spirit and His presence in the Christian’s life. Fill in the blank

10. Match the Scripture passages listed below with what they tell us about the Holy Spirit’s ministry in the life of the Christian.

a. You did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear; but you received the Spirit of sonship, and by him we cry, Abba, Father. 16The Holy Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (Romans 8:15-16) He gives us confidence before God.

b. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23a) He produces within us the character of God.

c. If by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live (Romans 8:13b) He imparts to us the victory of Christ over sin.

d. But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, 20for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. (Matthew 10:19-20) He enables us to confess Christ before men.

Two Things We Need to Know about the Lord's MercyJohn 7:53-8:11

1. Whom do the Pharisees bring to Jesus and what charge do they bring against this person? See John 8:3 (printed below)

Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought to him a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They made her stand before them (John 8:3)

As Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, the Pharisees brought to Him a woman guilty of adultery. They charge that she was caught in the very act of adultery, thereby establishing her guilt.

2. What punishment did the law of Moses prescribe for the sin of adultery? See John 8:5 (printed below) Why do you think the Pharisees ask for Jesus' opinion as to what to do with this woman? Hint: Recall what Jesus had done for the paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda, He had shown mercy to him.

Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such a person. What then do you say about her? (John 8:5)

The Pharisees immediately remind Jesus that the Old Testament Law of Moses prescribed that if a person was found to be guilty of adultery they were to be stoned to death. No doubt remembering the act of mercy Jesus had bestowed upon the undeserving paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda, the Pharisees now ask for Jesus' opinion as to what should be done about this woman who was obviously guilty of adultery.

3. By asking Jesus for His counsel concerning the adulterous woman, what were the Pharisees seeking to do? See John 8:6a (printed below)

Now they said this in order to test him, so that they might have something of which to accuse him. (John 8:6a)

The Pharisees' intention was to test Jesus. By asking for His opinion as to what to do about this woman, the Pharisees hoped to create a dilemma for Jesus. Knowing Him to be merciful and compassionate, they no doubt hoped that He would counsel leniency towards the woman and exempt her from suffering the punishment of being stoned to death. If, indeed, Jesus gave such counsel, the Pharisees then would have grounds for accusing Jesus of neglecting the justice prescribed in the Old Testament Law.

4. What does Jesus now do (see verses 6b-9 printed below?) What do you suppose Jesus wrote on the ground? Note: Consider first Deuteronomy 22:22 and then Deuteronomy 6:5, (both printed below). How do the Pharisees react?

Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground. (7) When they continued questioning him, he stood up and said to them, Whoever among you is without sin, let him cast the first stone at her. (8) Again he stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground. (9) Then, those who heard began to go away one at a time, beginning with the oldest down to the youngest, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. (John 8:6b-9)

If a man is found sleeping with another man's wife, both the man who slept with her and the woman must die. You must purge the evil from Israel. (Deuteronomy 22:22)

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. (Deuteronomy 6:5)

Jesus replies to the Pharisees by stooping down and writing with His finger in the dirt. What did He write? Perhaps it was the very law to which the Pharisees referred—the law that stipulated both parties who were caught in adultery were to be put to death. If so, Jesus is exposing the sin of the Pharisees in being selective in their administration of justice. When they continue to question Him, Jesus asks them the convicting question, "Who among you is without sin? Let him cast the first stone." Then He again stooped down and wrote in the dirt. Maybe this time He wrote out the first and greatest commandment, the commandment to love the Lord our God with all our heart (Deuteronomy 6:5). Whatever He wrote, the Pharisees became convicted of their own sin and thereupon withdrew, leaving the woman alone in the presence of Jesus.

5. What does Jesus now tell the woman? See John 8:10-11 (printed below)

Then Jesus stood up and said to her, Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you? (11) And she said, No one, Lord. And Jesus said, Neither do I condemn you. Go your way; from now on leave your life of sin. (John 8:10-11)

Since her accusers have seen fit not to press charges and carry out the sentence of condemnation against her, Jesus declares that He will not do so either. But Jesus does exhort her to repent of her sinful lifestyle. The implication is that the mercy of God must not be abused. The teaching of Scripture (an example of which is this very incident involving the adulterous woman) is that there is mercy with the Lord; but if we persist in our sins we shall finally be subject to the righteous judgment of God. The mercy of God is intended to lead us to repentance and reconciliation with our holy God (note Romans 2:4-6), it was never intended to be abused and misinterpreted to be a license to continue in sin without fear of just retribution.

6. Which of the following statements accurately describe the situation of the woman whom we meet in John 8?

a. She had been caught in the very act of sin. b. She found Jesus to be unsympathetic.c. She stood condemned by the law of God. d. She was surrounded by her accusers.

7. Complete the Scripture passages listed below that testify to the fact that the Lord stands ready to extend His mercy to us.

a. Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord Jehovah, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but, rather, that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways; for why will you die, O house of Israel? (Ezekiel 33:11)

b. Who is a God like you, who pardons iniquity and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not retain your anger forever, because you delight in lovingkindness. (Micah 7:18)

c. You are a God who stands ready to pardon; you are gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness… (Nehemiah 9:17b)

d. God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world; but rather, that the world might be saved through him. (John 3:16-17)

8. Complete the Scripture passages listed below that testify to the Lord’s ability to extend mercy and forgiveness to us.

a. God presented Christ Jesus as a sacrifice of atonement … He did this … so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:25-26)

b. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9)

c. We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous One, 2and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 2:1b-2a)

9. The Lord is rich in mercy, therefore, we may confidently look to Him for mercy; but we must never abuse His great mercy by entertaining a false confidence that we can continue to practice with impunity the sins that incur His divine anger and eventually meet with His divine judgment. Fill in the blank

10. We either fail to appreciate the greatness of the Lord’s mercy, or else we have the tendency to abuse His great mercy. The proper perspective concerning God’s mercy is provided for us in Psalm 130. Match the verses listed below with what the Psalmist teaches about God’s mercy.

a. Out of the depths have I cried out to you, O Jehovah. 2Lord, hear my voice, let you ears be attentive to my supplications. (Psalm 130:1-2) He cries out to the Lord from the depths of his guilt.

b. If you, Jehovah, keep a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? (Psalm 130:3) He confesses that all men are guilty before God.

c. But with you there is forgiveness (Psalm 130:4a) He acknowledges that the Lord is merciful.

d. But with you there is forgiveness, so that you may be feared. (Psalm 130:4) He recognizes that the Lord’s mercy must not be abused.

e. I wait for Jehovah, my soul waits; and in his word do I hope. (Psalm 130:5) He trusts in the Lord’s Word, not his feelings.

f. O Israel, put your hope in Jehovah; for with Jehovah there is lovingkindness, and with him is full redemption. (Psalm 130:7) He exhorts us to also hope in the Lord with full assurance.

Three Great Promises that Require CommitmentJohn 8:12, 31-36, 51-59

1. What claim does Jesus make in John 8:12a (printed below?) What do you think He means by this claim?

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, I am the light of the world (John 8:12a)

In Scripture, to give light means to give illumination and instruction; to be a light means to be a revelation or an example. By claiming to be "the Light of the world," Jesus is claiming that He, as the eternal Son of God, is able to reveal God to men (note John 14:9) and show men the life that is pleasing to God.

2. What promise does Jesus make to those who follow Him? See John 8:12b (printed below)

...whoever follows me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12b)

Jesus promises that those who follow Him "shall have the light of life." "The light of life" is the light that radiates from the life of God and directs us into that holy and blessed life (note Psalm 43:3). Jesus is telling us that if we commit ourselves to Him, we shall have the light of life—we shall be delivered out of the state of spiritual darkness and increasingly brought into an ever-deepening experience of the life and truth of God.

3. What does Jesus urge those Jews how believed in Him to do? What will they experience if they heed His counsel? See John 8:31-32 (printed below)

Jesus therefore said to those Jews who had believed him, If you remain in my word you will truly be my disciples; (32) and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. (John 8:31-32)

Jesus speaks of the necessity of remaining in His Word. That is to say, the necessity of constantly and consistently making the Bible to be your spiritual compass whereby you are directed to the ways of God; your moral rudder whereby your life is steered by the law of God; your divine anchor whereby you are connected to Christ. Jesus declares that as we remain in His Word we shall "know the truth." As we remain in Christ's Word we shall become acquainted with the truth of God, and we shall become united to the truth of God and transformed by it. Jesus further declares that the truth shall make us free. As we grow in the likeness of Christ (by means of His Word and our believing/obedient response to His Word), at the same time we will be growing out of the bondage and corruption of sin.

4. Describe the spiritual bondage of which Jesus speaks in verses 34-35 (printed below). What good news does He give us in verse 36 (printed below?)

Jesus answered them, I tell you the truth, Every one who commits sin is the slave of sin. (35) And the slave does not remain in the household forever; the son remains in the household forever. (John 8:34-35)

If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed (John 8:36)

In verses 34-35 Jesus speaks of a terrible spiritual bondage: the bondage of sin. Verse 34 tells us that the sinner is a slave to sin (note Romans 6:16a, 19b). As a spiritual slave, the sinner has no status: he has no claim upon God and no abiding place in God's household. Furthermore, the sinner has no security: he may be dismissed and consigned to the judgment of hell at any time. But, as verse 36 assures us, Jesus has the authority to confer upon the sinner the new status of adoption and sonship. At Calvary Jesus paid the price to purchase our deliverance from the bondage and consequence of sin and to secure for us a place in the household of God as a son. The moment you turn your life over to Jesus you undergo that change of status from slave to son.

5. What do you think Jesus means when in verse 51 He says, "I tell you the truth, If anyone keeps my word, he shall never see death?"

The one who keeps Christ's Word is the one who continues to live in a saving relationship with Christ. The person who keeps Christ's Word shall never see death. In biblical terms, "death" means being removed from a state of fellowship with God, a state in which one enjoys God's communion and blessing, and being removed to a state of separation from God, a state in which one experiences the righteous judgment of God enacted against sinful man. The ultimate expression of "death" is being denied entrance into heaven and being consigned to eternity in hell (note Matthew 25:41). If you commit yourself to Jesus, you shall never see death—on the contrary, you shall forever live in Jesus and He will bring you into the fullness of life in His Father's kingdom.

6. What does Jesus means when He declares, “I am the Light of the world?”

a. Jesus is the revelation of God. b. Jesus shows the life that is pleasing to God. c. Jesus came to solve all the problems of the world.

7. Jesus speaks of the necessity of remaining in His Word. Complete the sentences listed below that describe what the Bible, the Word of God, should be to us.

a. The Bible should be our spiritual compass whereby we are directed in the way of God.b. The Bible should be our moral rudder whereby our lives are steered by the law of God.c. The Bible should be our divine anchor whereby we remain connected to Christ.

8. According to the Lord Jesus, what benefit(s) will we receive if we remain in His Word?

a. We shall become acquainted with the truth of God. b. We shall achieve worldly success and abundant prosperity.c. We shall be spared from every trial and adversity.d. We shall be united to the truth and transformed by it.

9. In this passage the Lord Jesus makes three great promises that require commitment. Match those promises with the descriptions that best define them.

a. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall be delivered out of the state of spiritual darkness and increasingly come to experience the life that is pleasing to God and that enjoys His fellowship. You shall have the light of life.

b. If you commit yourself to Jesus you will be delivered from the bondage and corruption of sin. The truth shall make you free.

c. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall forever share in the life of Jesus and He will finally bring you into the fullness of life in His Father’s kingdom. You shall never see death.

10. Commitment is defined as devotion or dedication to a cause or to a person—for the Christian it is devotion and dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ. The power tot initiate and sustain that commitment is provided by the Holy Spirit. Fill in the blank

Jesus Christ: The Light of the WorldJohn 9:1-41

1. When Jesus left the temple, whom did He see (verse 1 printed below?) What question do the disciples ask about this man and his condition (see verse 2 printed below?)

As he passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. (John 9:1)

His disciples asked him, Rabbi, who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he should be born blind? (John 9:2)

As Jesus and His disciples left the temple, Jesus took notice of a poor blind beggar, sitting in the street, begging for alms. Apparently he was a well-known figure, for some of the disciples are able to identify him as a man who was born blind (verse 2). When Jesus takes notice of this poor blind beggar, the disciples take the opportunity to ask, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he should be born blind?" The disciples seek to attribute the cause of this man's physical malady to someone's personal act of sin: either the beggar's own sin or an act of sin committed by his parents.

2. How does Jesus answer His disciples' question? See John 9:3 (printed below)

Jesus answered, Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that the works of God might be displayed in him. (John 9:3)

Jesus replies to His disciples' question by stating, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that the works of God might be displayed in him." That is to say, God ordained that this man should be born blind so that at this particular time "the works (plural) of God" might be displayed in his life. This man becomes the recipient of physical sight as Christ graciously ministers healing to his eyes. Furthermore, this man becomes a living parable of our need to receive spiritual sight and enlightenment from the Lord.

3. Describe the procedure by which Jesus bestowed sight upon this blind beggar. See John 9:6-7 (printed below) What spiritual lesson was Jesus teaching when He performed this miracle in this way?

After having said this, he spit on the ground and made mud with the saliva; then he anointed the blind man's eyes with the mud (7) and said to him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam (which means, Sent). So he went and washed, and came home with his sight. (John 9:6-7)

By means of ministering physical healing to this blind man the Lord Jesus enlightens His disciples and the crowd to an essential spiritual truth. The man was born blind (verses 1-2). This man's physical condition of

blindness serves to illustrate our spiritual condition: by nature we are in a condition of spiritual blindness and darkness, we need to be delivered from the power of darkness (note Acts 26:18). In performing this miracle of granting sight, Jesus smears the man's eyes with mud and instructs him to wash in the pool of Siloam in order that he may receive his sight—thus this man had to grope his way through the crowd, testifying, "I am blind. My eyes are unclean. I must wash so that I may see!" (verses 6-7) The manner in which Jesus administers the healing is meant to graphically portray the fact that our spiritual blindness and our dwelling in spiritual darkness has a moral cause, namely, our sinfulness and rebellion against God (note Ephesians 4:18). Note that Jesus performs this miracle on the Sabbath day to dramatically convey the message that the observance of religious practices is inadequate to remove spiritual blindness and produce spiritual wholeness; what is required is the cleansing, enlightening, and saving work of the Lord Jesus Christ (verse 14).

4. Trace the development of the blind beggar's relationship to Jesus as it is described in verses 8-12, 15-17, 24-34, and 35-38 (printed below).

The neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging, asked, Is not this the man who used to sit and beg? (9) Some said, Yes, it is he. Others said, No, but he looks like him. He said, I am that man. (10) Therefore they said to him, How then were your eyes opened? (11) He answered, The man called Jesus made mud and anointed my eyes and said to me, Go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and I received sight. (12) Then they asked him, Where is he? He said, I do not know. (John 9:8-12)

The Pharisees also asked him how he received his sight. And he said to them, He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and now I see. (16) Some of the Pharisees said, This man is not from God, because he does not observe the Sabbath. But others said, How can a man who is a sinner do such signs? So there was division among them. (17) They turned again to the blind man and asked, What do you say about him, since he opened your eyes? The man replied, He is a prophet. (John 9:15-17)

So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and said to him, Give glory to God; we know that this man is a sinner. (25) He answered, I do not know whether or not he is a sinner. One thing I do know: I was blind, but now I can see. (26) Then they asked him, What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes? (27) He answered them, I already told you, but you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples? (28) They reviled him and said, You are his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses. (29) We know that God spoke to Moses; but we do not know from where this man comes. (30) The man replied, This is remarkable! You do not know from where he comes and yet he opened my eyes. (31) We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone worships God and does his will, God listens to him. (32) Since the world began no one has ever heard of anyone opening the eyes of a man born blind. (33) If this man were not from God, he could do nothing. (34) They responded to him by saying, You were totally born in sins, and would you teach us? And they threw him out. (John 9:24-34)

Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he asked, Do you believe in the Son of God? (36) He replied, Who is he, Sir? Tell me, so that I may believe in him? (37) Jesus said to him, You have seen him and he is the one who is speaking to you. (38) Then the man said, Lord, I believe. And he worshiped him. (John 9:35-38)

At the time of the miracle, the poor blind beggar was not yet a disciple of Jesus; at this point he did not know who Jesus really was. At first, he merely speaks about "the man called Jesus" (verse 11). When he is interviewed by the Pharisees and asked to give his opinion of Jesus, he declares, "He is a prophet" (verse 17). Still later he correctly draws the conclusion that Jesus must be "a man from God," or else He could not work such a miracle (verses 31-33). Although he still does not know Jesus' true identity, he is willing to look to Jesus for enlightenment (note verses 35-37). When this poor blind beggar was enlightened, he responded to the light by worshiping the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God (verse 38).

5. Trace the development of the Pharisees' reaction to this miracle as it is described in verses 13-16, 17-22 and 24-34 (printed below).

They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind (14) Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man's eyes was a Sabbath. (15) The Pharisees also asked him how he received his sight. And he said to them, He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and now I see. (16) Some of the Pharisees said, This man is not from God, because he does not observe the Sabbath. But others said, How can a man who is a sinner do such signs? So there was division among them. (John 9:13-16)

They turned again to the blind man and asked, What do you say about him, since he opened your eyes? The man replied, He is a prophet. (18) Therefore the Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they summoned his parents (19) and asked them, Is this your son, whom you say was born blind? How is it that he now sees? (20) His parents answered, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind. (21) But we do not know how he is now able to see; nor do we know who opened his eyes. He is an adult, ask him; he can speak for himself. (22) His parents said this because they feared

the Jews; for the Jews had already decided that if any one should confess Jesus to be the Christ, he should be expelled from the synagogue. (John 9:17-22)

So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and said to him, Give glory to God; we know that this man is a sinner. (25) He answered, I do not know whether or not he is a sinner. One thing I do know: I was blind, but now I can see. (26) Then they asked him, What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes? (27) He answered them, I already told you, but you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples? (28) They reviled him and said, You are his disciple; but we are disciples of Moses. (29) We know that God spoke to Moses; but we do not know from where this man comes. (30) The man replied, This is remarkable! You do not know from where he comes and yet he opened my eyes. (31) We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone worships God and does his will, God listens to him. (32) Since the world began no one has ever heard of anyone opening the eyes of a man born blind. (33) If this man were not from God, he could do nothing. (34) They responded to him by saying, You were totally born in sins, and would you teach us? And they threw him out. (John 9:24-34)

As they interview this poor beggar, the Pharisees do not initially question the fact that he has miraculously received his sight, they are interested in learning how his sight was restored (verses 15-18). Notice that it is only after the beggar identifies Jesus as a prophet that the Pharisees question and seek to deny the fact that a miracle of healing has, indeed, taken place (verses 17-18). The Pharisees now insist upon interviewing the poor beggar's parents (verses 18-23). Pressure is brought to bear against the parents in an effort to silence them or anyone from professing Jesus to be the Messiah. The Pharisees then proceed to hold a second interview with the beggar himself (verses 24-34). They insist upon having the facts of the case reviewed again—no doubt hoping to find some flaw or inconsistency which would allow them to dismiss this whole disturbing incident and discredit the beggar's witness concerning Jesus (verse 26). Finding themselves unable to refute the facts, the Pharisees now resort to reviling the witness: subjecting the beggar to verbal abuse by calling him a disciple of Jesus, while they claim for themselves the distinction of being disciples of Moses (verse 28). Finally, "they threw him out;" that is to say, they excommunicated him from the synagogue.

6. As we study the ninth chapter of the Gospel of John, we discover that, because He is the Light of the world, an encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ can be either an enlightening experience or a blinding experience. True or False

7. Put into chronological order the blind beggar’s assessment of who Jesus is, thereby showing the development of his understanding of Jesus’ identity and his relationship to Him.

a. He speaks about the man called Jesus. Firstb. He declares that Jesus is a prophet. Secondc. He draws the conclusion that Jesus must be a man from God. Thirdd. He confesses that Jesus is the Son of God. Fourth

8. Match the descriptions listed below with the various aspects of the incident recorded in John 9, thereby showing the spiritual dimension of Jesus’ miracle of bestowing sight on the blind beggar.

a. By nature, we are in a condition of spiritual blindness and darkness from which we need to be delivered. The man was born blind.

b. Our spiritual blindness and our dwelling in spiritual darkness has a moral cause, namely, our sinfulness which needs to be removed. The man must wash the mud from his eyes.

c. The mere observance of religious practices is inadequate to remove our spiritual blindness; we need the saving work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus performed the miracle on the Sabbath.

9. Which of the following statements accurately describe the result of Jesus’ coming as the Light of the world?

a. The man born blind is delivered from his state of physical and spiritual blindness into a state of conversion and discipleship—he sees the Light, believes in the Light, and now lives in the Light.

b. The Pharisees are removed from their state of spiritual perception (as disciples of Moses and students of the Old Testament Scriptures, they possessed some degree of spiritual perception) into a state of spiritual darkness—they refuse to see and accept the Light, consequently, they are consigned to darkness and judgment.

c. Both of the above

10. Match the descriptions given below with the persons to whom they pertain.

a. He must resist the temptation to shut his eyes to the enlightening presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Sinner

b. He must look to Christ for enlightenment and then respond to Him in faith and commitment. The Potential Disciple

c. He must continue to look to Christ for greater enlightenment with regard to the ways of God and the life that is pleasing to God. The Disciple

Two Reasons to Trust Jesus, the Good ShepherdJohn 10:1-18

1. How does Jesus describe Himself in John 10:7 (printed below?) What does He mean?

Therefore Jesus again said to them, I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. (John 10:7)

Jesus declares that He is "the gate for the sheep." In other words, Jesus is claiming that He is the One who provides entrance into "the sheepfold,' and He is the only entrance into the fold. As He makes clear in John 14:6, Jesus is declaring that He, as the eternal Son of God and the Savior sent by God, is the only way by which we can be redeemed from the righteous judgment of God and restored to fellowship with God. Jesus alone can give us access to the kingdom of God.

2. What promise does Jesus make to those who believe in Him? See John 10:9 (printed below)

I am the gate; if anyone enters in through me he shall be saved, and shall come in and go out, and shall find pasture. (John 10:9)

Jesus assures us that whoever "enters in through him"—i.e.; whoever receives Him as their Savior and trusts in Him alone for entrance into the kingdom of God—shall surely be saved. For those who trust in Jesus, salvation is not a possibility, it is a certainty. It is a certainty guaranteed because of Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross of Calvary whereby the justice of God was totally satisfied on behalf of all those who accept Jesus as their Savior. Jesus further promises that everyone who trusts in Him "shall come in and go out, and shall find pasture." That is to say, all those who trust in Jesus will find continuing acceptance with God the Father and shall experience the spiritual life of nourishment and satisfaction that is only found in a saving relationship with His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.

3. How does Jesus contrast Himself with "the thief?" See John 10:10 (printed below)

The thief only comes in order to steal and kill and destroy; I have come so that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10)

The sole purpose of the thief is to steal, to kill, and to destroy; and the ultimate thief is the devil himself (John 8:44b). In contrast to the thief, Jesus declares that as the Good Shepherd He came that we might

have life. Jesus further declares that as the Good Shepherd He came to offer an abundance of life to those who trust in Him.

4. How does Jesus compare Himself to "the hired hand?" See John 10:11-13 (printed below)

I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. (12) The hired hand is not a shepherd—the sheep do not belong to him. When he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. (13) He runs away because he is a hired hand and does not care about the sheep. (John 10:11-13)

A hired hand works with the sheep, but he is not a shepherd; he works for money, he feels no love or devotion to the sheep. The hired hand does not have a personal interest in the sheep because they do not belong to him: the sheep are his living, but they are not his life; he tends the sheep, but he is not tenderly attached to them. The hired hand will not risk his life for the sheep: he sees the wolf coming, he forsakes the sheep and runs for his life; he flees because he does not care about the sheep. In contrast to the hired hand, Jesus declares that as the Good Shepherd, He cares for the sheep, so much so that He willingly lays down His life for His sheep.

5. What does Jesus emphasize that He will do for His sheep? See John 10:11,15,17-18 (printed below)

I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep...(15) just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep...(17) The Father loves me because I lay down my life—I lay it down in order that I may take it again. (18) No one takes it away from me, I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it again. I received this commandment from my Father. (John 10:11,15,17-18)

Six times in this passage Jesus declares that as the Good Shepherd He will lay down His life for His sheep. Because of His commitment to His Father, and because of His great love for His sheep, Jesus as the Good Shepherd protects His sheep with His own life (verse 15b). In an emergency a good shepherd would venture to risk his life for his sheep (note 1 Samuel 17:34-35, where David relates his experience as a shepherd); but Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, came into the world for the express purpose of voluntarily laying down His life for His sheep! Jesus laid down His life to protect His sheep from the righteous wrath of God (Isaiah 53:4b-5) by satisfying the righteous demands of God's justice (note 1 John 4:10). In His resurrection life Jesus continues to plead on behalf of His people and guarantees our protection until we arrive safely at our heavenly Father's home (note Hebrews 7:25).

6. Complete the following sentences that describe Jesus as the Good Shepherd in contrast to the thief.

a. The sole purpose of the thief is to steal and kill and destroy.b. The ultimate thief is the devil.c. Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, came to give life.d. Jesus declares that, as the Good Shepherd, He offers us abundant life.

7. The following is an excerpt from the testimony of a lady named Iris Smith: In January of 1982 I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Then my troubles began…Does that mean Christ was a liar when He promised an abundant life? No. Through all the trials I’ve learned that circumstances are not the source of abundance. As a Christian, my abundance comes from God’s presence in my life. Fill in the blank

8. Which of the following statements accurately describe the contrast between Jesus as the Good Shepherd and the hired hand?

a. The hired hand is more interested in his wages than in the sheep under his care. b. The hired hand does not have a personal interest in the sheep because they do not

belong to him.c. The hired hand will risk his life for the sheep in their hour of danger even though the sheep

do not belong to him.d. The Good Shepherd knows each one of His sheep by name. e. The Good Shepherd willingly came to lay down His life for His sheep.

9. In this passage of the Gospel of John, what does Jesus emphasize that He as the Good Shepherd does for His sheep?

a. Jesus leads His sheep by the quiet waters.b. Jesus seeks His sheep that have gone astray.c. Jesus lays down His life for His sheep.

10. Because Jesus is the Good Shepherd we can entrust ourselves to Him with complete confidence. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the various aspects of this confidence.

a. We can be confident that Jesus will neither reject us nor disappoint us.b. We can be confident that Jesus will protect our souls, even though we may be called to pass

through severe trial.c. We can be confident that Jesus will provide for all our needs.

How to Know You Belong to the Good ShepherdJohn 10:7-42

1. What do the Jews demand of Jesus (see verse 24 printed below) and how does Jesus reply (see verses 25-26 printed below?) Note, also, verses 32-33, 37-39 (printed below)

The Jews gathered around him, saying, How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly. (John 10:24)

Jesus answered them, I told you, but you do not believe. The works that I am performing in my Father's name, these works testify about me; (26) but you do not believe, because you are not numbered among my sheep. (John 10:25-26)

Jesus asked them, I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of those works are you seeking to stone me? (33) The Jews answered him, We are not seeking to stone you for a good work, but for blasphemy; because you, being a man, claim to be God…(37) If I do not do the works of my Father, do not believe me. (38) But if I am doing those works, even though you do not believe me, believe the works; so that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father. (39) Again they tried to seize him, but he went away out of their grasp. (John 10:32-33,37-39)

The Jews demand that Jesus tell them plainly (i.e.; in a straightforward way) whether or not He is the Messiah. In response to their request, Jesus points to His many good works (verse 32)—noble works, works that are the very display of goodness itself; works that originate from the Father (they are the Father's works that He is performing through Jesus, they are works that serve as Jesus' divine credentials.) Jesus' argument: If you refuse to believe what I say about Myself, then let My works convince you; after all, actions speak louder than words!—Anybody can say that he is God, but only God can act like God! The Jews now respond, "We do not seek to stone you for a good work; we seek to stone you because you, being a man, claim to be God!" (verse 33). Observe their reasoning: we do not seek to stone you because of what you are doing, but because of what you are saying—i.e.; they confess that Jesus' actions back up His claim; but, nevertheless, they still refuse to accept His claim! Their reaction to Christ reveals a heart and

mind that are set against Christ and against the truth. Jesus pronounces the following indictment against such people: "You do not believe, because you are not numbered among my sheep" (verse 26).

2. What does Jesus tell us about His sheep in verse 27a (printed below?)

My sheep respond to my voice (John 10:27a)

Jesus declares, "My sheep respond to my voice." When the Good Shepherd calls His sheep, His sheep recognize His voice and respond: their ears perk up, their hearts beat with excitement, and they come running to their shepherd. The rest of the sheep in the community fold pay little or no attention: they are uninterested—the things of God do not stir their souls; the Shepherd's voice goes unheeded, unnoticed, or even rejected. Note: In those days there was one large community sheepfold that housed many different flocks of sheep. Each morning the shepherds would come to the fold and call their sheep by name; the sheep that belonged to that particular shepherd would respond to his voice and gather around him. Jesus declares, "My sheep respond to my voice." That is to say, His sheep recognize who He is, they recognize that Jesus is the Son of God and the Savior, and they come to Him.

3. What else does Jesus' sheep do when they hear the Good Shepherd's voice? See John 10:27c (printed below)

My sheep...follow me. (John 10:27c)

Jesus declares, "My sheep respond to my voice...and they follow me." There is a personal identification with the Good Shepherd: there is not only the recognition that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, but there is also the acknowledgment that Jesus is my Shepherd.

4. What assurance does Jesus give concerning His sheep? See John 10:28 (printed below)

I give them eternal life—they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. (John 10:28)

Verse 28 contains the promise of security: His sheep shall never perish and no one shall ever snatch them out of His hand. The devil, as the thief whose only intention is to steal and kill and destroy, may at times be permitted to test and even oppress the Christian, but he cannot snatch us away from the Good Shepherd.

5. In verse 28 Jesus has given a word of assurance to His sheep. In verses 29-30 (printed below) he provides the grounds, or reasons, for that assurance. What are those grounds?

My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. (30) I and the Father are one. (John 10:29-30)Verses 29-30 contain the grounds for this security promised by the Good Shepherd to His sheep. God the Father who has given the sheep to Christ, is greater than all, no one is able to snatch the sheep out of the Father's hand—and since there is an intimate connection between Christ and the Father (note verse 38b), no one is able to ever snatch the sheep out of Christ's hand!

6. In John 10 we are informed that the chief characteristic of Christ’s sheep is a God-given faith/feeling that enables them to respond to the Shepherd’s voice and follow Him. Choose the correct answer.

7. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the manner of shepherding that was practiced in biblical times and that helps us to understand Jesus’ teaching.

a. Many different flocks of sheep would be sheltered together for the night in one community sheepfold with a watchman standing guard.

b. Early in the morning the various shepherds would enter this large enclosure and, wading through the mass of sheep, they would call their own sheep by name.

c. The sheep that belonged to the shepherd would recognize his voice and gather around him.d. When the shepherd had gathered all of his sheep to himself, he would lead them out to

pasture and his sheep would follow him.e. Jesus tells us that He is the Good Shepherd and those who are His sheep recognize His

voice and follow Him.

8. Jesus’ “sheep” recognize who He is, they recognize that He is the Son of God, the promised Savior, and they are drawn to Him. Several examples of this are given in the opening chapters of the Gospel of John. Match each testimony with the person who uttered it.

a. We have found the Messiah (John 1:41) Andrewb. We have found the one of whom Moses wrote in the Law, and of whom the prophets also

wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. (John 1:45) Philip

c. Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are King of Israel. (John 1:49) Nathanel

9. Jesus’ “sheep” recognize that He is the Son of God, the promised Savior. In contrast to them, which of the following false or inadequate views did the unbelieving population entertain about Jesus?

a. He was the angel Gabriel.b. He was a teacher who came from God. c. He was a Sabbath breaker. d. He was a blasphemer who called God his Father. e. He was a deranged or even demon-possessed individual. f. He was a miracle worker.

10. Jesus’ “sheep” not only recognize Him for who he truly is, they also follow Him; that is to say, they commit themselves to Him. Fill in the blank

Jesus Christ: The Resurrection and The LifeJohn 11:1-44

1. When Jesus receives word of Lazarus' illness, what does He tell His disciples? See John 11:3-4 (printed below)

So the sisters sent word to Jesus, saying, Lord, the one whom you love is sick. (4) But when Jesus heard this, he said, This sickness is not for death, but for the sake of the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it. (John 11:3-4)

Upon receiving word of Lazarus' illness, Jesus informs His disciples, "this sickness is...for the sake of the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it." That is to say, God will use this adversity—this "tragedy"—in the life of His child, Lazarus, as an occasion to glorify His Son, Jesus Christ. Note: It is only when we acknowledge and accept the truth that all things center around God and contribute to His glory that we are delivered from bitterness and resentment, and come to experience the blessing of God that He bestows upon those who glorify and honor Him by submitting to His will even when it is difficult or hard to understand.

2. How does John describe Jesus' feeling toward Lazarus (see verse 5 printed below?) What does Jesus do when He learns that Lazarus is seriously ill (see verse 6 printed below?)

Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. (John 11:5)Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed at that time in the place where he was for two more days. (John 11:6)

Verse 5 informs us of Jesus' love for this family and for each individual member of it: "Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus." This word of commentary and assurance is important in the light of Christ's unexpected response as recorded in verse 6. When Jesus received word that Lazarus was sick, He

remained "at that time"—that critical time, that time when Lazarus' life hung in the balance, that time when Lazarus' life was ebbing away—in the place where He was. Can you imagine how difficult that must have been-for Jesus? He loved Lazarus; He had the power to heal him; He had enough time to get to his bedside, indeed, He did not even need to come personally, He had only to speak the word (note John 4:49-53).

3. What does Jesus tell His disciples in verse 14 (printed below?) What surprising comment does Jesus add in verse 15 (printed below?) Why do you think He said this?

Then Jesus told them plainly, Lazarus is dead. (John 11:14)

And for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe; but now let us go to him. (John 11:15)

When Jesus now explains to His disciples that their dear friend, Lazarus, is dead (verse 14), He again surprises them (and us) with the words, "for your sake I am glad that I was not there" (verse 15). But note that in the passage before us Jesus' present actions only become intelligible when they are viewed from the perspective of His climactic act: the resurrection of Lazarus. Why did Jesus allow His dear friend to die? so that He could raise him again from the grave. Why did Jesus desire to resurrect Lazarus? so that His disciples might have their faith strengthened and increased (verse 15). Why was it important for the disciples to have their faith so strengthened at this particular time? so that they might be prepared for the events that lay ahead (Jesus is about to allow Himself to be taken into custody by the Jewish leaders and be put to death)—and thus have the assurance that despite Jesus' crucifixion, He indeed is the Resurrection and the Life.

4. When the Jews witness Jesus weeping at the tomb of His beloved friend Lazarus, what question do they raise (see verses 35-37 printed below?) What does their question tell us about their faith in Jesus' ability?

Jesus wept. (36) Then the Jews said, See how much he loved him! (37) But some of them said, Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have prevented the death of this man? (John 11:35-37)

When the Jews beheld Jesus weeping at the tomb, they raised the same question that had been asked twice before: If Jesus had been here earlier, could He not have prevented this man from dying? The implication of their question: now that Lazarus is dead all hope is gone, it is now too late; Jesus can do nothing more than join the mourners in weeping over the loss of their loved one. Thus their question reveals that they had faith in Jesus' ability, but they viewed Jesus as having only limited ability.

5. As He stands before the tomb, what does Jesus command be done? What assurance does He give Martha? See John 11:38-40 (printed below)

Jesus, again groaning within himself, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, with a stone laid against the entrance. (39) Jesus said, Remove the stone. Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to him, Lord, by this time the body stinks, for he has been dead for four days. (40) Jesus said to her, Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God? (John 11:38-40)

Jesus gives the command to remove the stone that sealed the tomb shut. No doubt the crowd thought, "What an unusual request! Does He want to pay His last respects to the deceased? Does He not realize the traumatic effect of such a request on the bereaved? Has He no respect for the dead? How insensitive the Lord appears to be!" Martha, as the sister of the deceased, must step forward to remind Jesus that by this time the corpse stinks, for he has been dead for four days! Jesus now instructs Martha to trust Him–even though what He asks her to go through is extremely painful—and assures her that in so doing she shall see the glory of God. The faith she previously expressed in words (verse 27) she now affirms by her actions (verse 41a); and true to Jesus' word, she sees the glory of God displayed in the resurrection of her beloved brother.

6. From the incident recorded in the eleventh chapter of the Gospel of John, we learn that, because Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life, we can trust Him to bring us safely ________ tribulation and into resurrection life. Choose the correct word.

a. through b. aroundc. above

7. Which of the following factors would make it very painful for Jesus to hear of Lazarus’ illness but remain where He was without attending to him?

a. Jesus loved Lazarus. b. Jesus did not have enough time to get to Lazarus.

c. Jesus had the power to heal Lazarus. d. Jesus could not put His own life in jeopardy.

8. Jesus’ identity as The Resurrection assures us, not of a deliverance from death, but of a total deliverance after death and out of death and over death. True or False

9. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the significance of the event recorded in John 11.

a. Jesus allowed His dear friend Lazarus to die so that he might perform a resurrection.b. Jesus used this miracle to strengthen and increase His disciples’ faith

in anticipation of His own imminent crucifixion.c. In anticipation of the trials that lay ahead, Jesus is demonstrating to His disciples that He is the Resurrection.

10. What lesson(s) should we as Christians learn from the events described in John 11?

a. We should learn that because of His great love for us, Jesus will spare us from all adversity and tribulation.

b. We should learn that, although Jesus may lead us through tribulation, we may be assured of His love for us.

c. We should learn that if we trust Christ—especially at those times when we encounter tribulation— we shall come to behold the glory of God and experience His blessing.

What Happens When You Fight Against God?John 11:45-57

1. How do the Pharisees respond to Jesus' act of raising Lazarus from the dead? See John 11:47-48 (printed below)

Therefore the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin and asked, What shall we do, this man is performing many signs? (48) If we leave him alone, everyone will believe in him; then the Romans will come and take away our place and our nation. (John 11:47-48)

Upon receiving the report of how Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, the chief priests and the Pharisees called an emergency meeting of the Sanhedrin to discuss the question, What should we do? These religious leaders were concerned that if they did not put a stop to this man, Jesus, all men would come to believe in him (i.e.; all Israel would hail Him as the promised Messiah). If that were to happen, the Romans would come with force and take away "our place and our nation" (verse 48).

2. What is motivating these religious leaders in their opposition to Jesus? Hint: Note how they refer to the temple as "our place" and to the nation of Israel as "our nation."

The motivation for their opposition to Jesus was the fear of losing their place and their nation. They dare to refer to the temple of God and the accompanying service of the temple as "our place"—the place from which they derived their prestige, power, and wealth. They dare to refer to the people of God as "our nation"—viewing the people, the revenue, the land, and all that composed the nation of Israel as belonging

to them, as being their own personal domain. They fail to appreciate that all the privileges and blessings they enjoyed were the gracious gifts of God to be received with gratitude and to be used in service to God.

3. What counsel does Caiaphas the high priest offer? See John 11:49-50 (printed below)

One of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, You know nothing at all. (50) You do not realize that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, rather than have the whole nation perish. (John 11:49-50)

Caiaphas, the high priest, offers what he believes to be the solution to their dilemma: "You do not realize that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, rather than have the whole nation perish" (verse 50). Motivated by fear, by resentment, by self-interest, there is conceived a plot to murder the long-expected Messiah.

4. Why is Caiaphas' counsel incredibly foolish? Note John 11:25 and John 10:17-18 (printed below)

Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection, and the life (John 11:25a)

The Father loves me because I lay down my life—I lay it down in order that I may take it again. (18) No one takes it away from me, I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it again. I received this commandment from my Father. (John 10:17-18)

Motivated by fear, by resentment, by self-interest, there is conceived a plot to murder the Son of God—but how incredibly foolish it is to fight against God! What are these men doing? They are plotting the murder of Jesus. Why are they undertaking such an evil deed? The thing that finally caused them to take this concerted action was the fact that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead—a demonstration that Jesus Himself is the Resurrection and the Life. Thus, here are a group of men plotting the death of the very One who is the Lord of life! (note John 10:17-18).

5. What does John tell us about Caiaphas' counsel in verses 51-52 (printed below?)

Now he did not say this on his own; on the contrary, being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for the nation—(52) and not only for the nation of Israel, but also that he might gather together the children of God who were scattered. (John 11:51-52)

John points out that there was a far greater meaning to Caiaphas' words than he could ever have imagined. This counsel was not merely the murderous scheming of an evil man; this was, at the very same time, the supreme prophecy of God placed upon the lips of this man in his capacity as high priest. Here is the whole meaning of the Old Testament summed up in one brilliant word from God, and in one brilliant way by God! It is God's way of saying, I am in control! I have seen fit to use the mouth of this villain to utter My truth. And I will employ their very scheme to accomplish My divine purpose! (note Acts 4:27-28)

6. Often times when we find ourselves fighting against God there is present the underlying attitude of resentment—the feeling that we have been unjustly deprived of some thing we mistakenly view as belonging to us by rights. Fill in the blank

7. Why was it incredibly foolish for the Jewish leaders to plot the death of Jesus?

a. Because God the Father would not allow the plot to succeed.b. Because the Roman authorities would prosecute the perpetrators of such a crime.c. Because Jesus has the power over death.

8. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss the roles people often assume when they fight against God.

a. If you assume the role of a civil rights protester demanding your rights, God will advise you that all rights are derived from Him and that we, as beings whom He has created, are subject to His righteous will.

b. If you assume the role of a trial lawyer, bringing charges against God and demanding justice, you will discover that God is the Source of justice and the righteous Judge over all the earth.

c. If you assume the role of a military general, pitting the strength of your stubborn will against God, you will find that there is no possibility of succeeding against the Almighty.

9. What reason(s) does this passage from the Gospel of John provide as to why we must refrain from fighting against God?

a. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is very foolish.

b. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is futile. c. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is self-destructive. d. “A” and “B” above

10. If we have been fighting against God, we must assume the position of the penitent tax collector mentioned in Jesus’ parable, and by so doing we shall receive mercy, restoration and blessing from the Lord. Fill in the blank

FINAL EXAM (STUDENT AND FACILATOR COPIES)

FINAL EXAM ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN (1) (STUDENT COPY)

1. When you look to the Lord Jesus Christ as He presents Himself in the Scriptures, what do you discover? Complete the sentences listed below.

a. When you look to Jesus you meet the ___ of God.b. When you look to Jesus you see the ___ required by God.c. When you look to Jesus you find the ___ offered by God.

1. life2. person3. grace

2. Which of the following statements accurately describe John’s understanding of himself and his ministry?

a. John is convinced that he personally can solve men’s problems.b. John has a deep and genuine humility.c. John is aware that he is bringing a message from God.d. John promotes himself as a great religious leader.

3. What are the characteristics of genuine conversion?

a. The promise made to God that from now on you will try to be a better person.b. The confession to God of your own personal sinfulness.c. The total surrender of your life to Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord.d. The commitment to attend church services every Sunday to worship God.

4. Match the various elements of our Lord’s first miraculous sign with their spiritual significance.

a. Jesus is the Source and Giver of joy that is experienced in a relationship with Him. ___b. The joy that is found in the kingdom of God and in our relationship with Christ is abundant.

___c. The joy offered by Jesus and found in a relationship with Him is authentic and better than

anything the world can offer. ___

1. The sign was performed at a wedding.2. The wine made by Jesus was of the finest quality.3. Jesus produced 150 gallons of wine.

5. Complete the sentences listed below that indicate when and under what circumstances our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

a. When His eyes behold His Father’s house turned into a common marketplace instead of being maintained as a ___, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

b. When He witnesses love of money and the pursuit of profit as one’s first priority instead of ___, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

c. When He observes religious formality and the entertaining of sin rather than ___, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

1. purity of life2. devotion to God3. hallowed sanctuary

6. In John 1:12-13 the Bible speaks of the new birth as an act of God that produces faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss what happens when this work of God takes place in a person’s life.

a. He or she ___ that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to save sinners.b. He or she ___ that they are a sinner who needs Christ to be their Savior.c. He or she ___ in Jesus, completely surrendering themselves to Him as He graciously offers

Himself to them.

1. recognizes2. trusts3. acknowledges

7. Complete the sentences listed below that contrast several false views of faith with the biblical teaching of what it means to believe in Jesus.

a. There are those people who acknowledge that Jesus died for the world; since they belong to the human race they assume Christ died for them and that their salvation is automatic—this is the hope of salvation by ___.

b. There are other people who maintain that they believe in Jesus when all they actually believe in are simply the facts about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—this is the hope of salvation by ___.

c. When the Bible speaks about believing in Jesus it means that person must receive Christ as his/her own Savior and Lord—this is salvation by ___.

1. presumption2. personal acceptance3. intellectual assent

8. Why does John the Baptist insist that Christ must increase and he must decrease? In other words, why does he insist that Christ must have the pre-eminence?

a. Because it was the custom for the succeeding teacher to gain a higher position than that of his predecessor.

b. Because he accepts the fact that everyone is turning to Jesus, therefore he graciously steps aside rather than challenging Jesus’ popularity.

c. Because he recognizes that Jesus has come from above, He has come from heaven.

9. What do we learn from the Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus?

a. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the One who fills you with wonder.b. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be just like any other religious leader.c. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Giver of spiritual life.d. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Exposer of your sins.

10. How did Jesus deal with the nobleman who requested Him to heal his son?

a. Despite the nobleman’s imposition, Jesus willingly did just what the man requested.b. Because the man had difficulty accepting Jesus’ terms, Jesus refused to heal his son.c. In order for his son to be healed, the nobleman was compelled to trust in Jesus’ divine word.

11. What lessons should we learn from the incident in which Jesus healed the paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda?

a. We can look to Jesus for mercy because He shows mercy to even the most undeserving.b. We can look to Jesus for mercy because he will never carry out the judgment of God.c. We can look to Jesus for mercy and then we must extend that same mercy to others.

12. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss why self-righteous people harbor such intense prejudice against Jesus.

a. Jesus, by His life as ___, displays before us the righteousness God requires.b. Jesus, by His teaching as ___, expounds for us the true requirements of God’s law.c. Jesus, by His identity as ___, confronts us with our need for a Savior to bear our sins.

1. the Holy One of God2. the Lamb of God3. the Son of God

13. Because Jesus is the all-sufficient Savior, what can we trust Him to do for us?

a. We can trust the Lord Jesus to combat the stratagems of the devil.b. We can trust the Lord Jesus to satisfy our every desire.c. We can trust the Lord Jesus to sustain us in times of crisis.

14. What does Jesus means when He counsels us to work for the food that lasts for eternal life?

a. We are to earnestly pray that the Lord would always supply us with our daily portion of bread to sustain our bodies so that we will never go hungry.

b. We must believe in the Lord Jesus as our Savior and, relying upon His grace, dedicate ourselves to being His disciples.

c. We must make every effort to reform our lives in the endeavor to personally merit the right to enter the kingdom of heaven.

15. Precisely because He is in charge, we should not expect Christ to cater to any challenge to deviate from His pre-determined course assigned to Him by God His Father—we should not expect Him to deviate from carrying out His purpose for His church collectively or for our lives individually, and from carrying out that divine purpose in His time and in the way He sees fit. True of False

16. What does Jesus counsel spiritually thirsty people to do?

a. They are to join a local church.b. They are to make confession to a priest or minister.c. They are to come directly to Jesus.d. They are to get in harmony with nature.

17. Which of the following statements accurately describe the situation of the woman whom we meet in John 8?

a. She had been caught in the very act of sin.b. She found Jesus to be unsympathetic.c. She stood condemned by the law of God.d. She was surrounded by her accusers.

18. In the eighth chapter of the Gospel of John the Lord Jesus makes three great promises that require commitment. Match those promises with the descriptions that best define them.

a. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall be delivered out of the state of spiritual darkness and increasingly come to experience the life that is pleasing to God and that enjoys His fellowship. ___

b. If you commit yourself to Jesus you will be delivered from the bondage and corruption of sin. ___

c. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall forever share in the life of Jesus and He will finally bring you into the fullness of life in His Father’s kingdom. ___

1. You shall have the light of life.2. You shall never see death.3. The truth shall make you free.

19. Match the descriptions given below with the persons to whom they pertain.

a. He must resist the temptation to shut his eyes to the enlightening presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. ___

b. He must look to Christ for enlightenment and then respond to Him in faith and commitment. ___

c. He must continue to look to Christ for greater enlightenment with regard to the ways of God and the life that is pleasing to God. ___

1. The Sinner2. The Potential Disciple3. The Disciple

20. Because Jesus is the Good Shepherd we can entrust ourselves to Him with complete confidence. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the various aspects of this confidence.

a. We can be confident that Jesus will neither ___ us nor disappoint us.b. We can be confident that Jesus will ___ our souls, even though we may be called to pass

through severe trial.c. We can be confident that Jesus will ___ all our needs.

1. provide for2. reject3. protect

21. In John 10 we are informed that the chief characteristic of Christ’s sheep is a God-given ___ that enables them to respond to the Shepherd’s voice and follow Him. Choose the correct answer.

1. faith2. feeling

22. What lesson(s) should we as Christians learn from the events described in John 11? (Answers continued on next page)

a. We should learn that because of His great love for us, Jesus will spare us from all adversity and tribulation.

b. We should learn that, although Jesus may lead us through tribulation, we may be assured of His love for us.

c. We should learn that if we trust Christ—especially at those times when we encounter tribulation—we shall come to behold the glory of God and experience His blessing.

23. Why we must refrain from fighting against God?

a. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is very foolish.b. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is futile.c. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is self-destructive.d. “A” and “B” above

FINAL EXAM ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN (1) (FACILITATOR’S COPY WITH ANSWERS)

1. When you look to the Lord Jesus Christ as He presents Himself in the Scriptures, what do you discover? Complete the sentences listed below.

a. When you look to Jesus you meet the person of God.b. When you look to Jesus you see the life required by God.c. When you look to Jesus you find the grace offered by God.

2. Which of the following statements accurately describe John’s understanding of himself and his ministry?

a. John is convinced that he personally can solve men’s problems.b. John has a deep and genuine humility. c. John is aware that he is bringing a message from God. d. John promotes himself as a great religious leader.

3. What are the characteristics of genuine conversion?

a. The promise made to God that from now on you will try to be a better person.b. The confession to God of your own personal sinfulness. c. The total surrender of your life to Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. d. The commitment to attend church services every Sunday to worship God.

4. Match the various elements of our Lord’s first miraculous sign with their spiritual significance.

a. Jesus is the Source and Giver of joy that is experienced in a relationship with Him. The sign was performed at a wedding.

b. The joy that is found in the kingdom of God and in our relationship with Christ is abundant. Jesus produced 150 gallons of wine.

c. The joy offered by Jesus and found in a relationship with Him is authentic and better than anything the world can offer. The wine made by Jesus was of the finest quality.

5. Complete the sentences listed below that indicate when and under what circumstances our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

a. When His eyes behold His Father’s house turned into a common marketplace instead of being maintained as a hallowed sanctuary, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

b. When He witnesses love of money and the pursuit of profit as one’s first priority instead of devotion to God, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

c. When He observes religious formality and the entertaining of sin rather than purity of life, our Lord’s righteous anger is aroused.

6. In John 1:12-13 the Bible speaks of the new birth as an act of God that produces faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss what happens when this work of God takes place in a person’s life.

a. He or she recognizes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God who came to save sinners.b. He or she acknowledges that they are a sinner who needs Christ to be their Savior.c. He or she trusts in Jesus, completely surrendering themselves to Him as He graciously offers

Himself to them.

7. Complete the sentences listed below that contrast several false views of faith with the biblical teaching of what it means to believe in Jesus.

a. There are those people who acknowledge that Jesus died for the world; since they belong to the human race they assume Christ died for them and that their salvation is automatic—this is the hope of salvation by presumption.

b. There are other people who maintain that they believe in Jesus when all they actually believe in are simply the facts about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—this is the hope of salvation by intellectual assent.

c. When the Bible speaks about believing in Jesus it means that person must receive Christ as his/her own Savior and Lord—this is salvation by personal acceptance.

8. Why does John the Baptist insist that Christ must increase and he must decrease? In other words, why does he insist that Christ must have the pre-eminence?

a. Because it was the custom for the succeeding teacher to gain a higher position than that of his predecessor.

b. Because he accepts the fact that everyone is turning to Jesus, therefore he graciously steps aside rather than challenging Jesus’ popularity.

c. Because he recognizes that Jesus has come from above, He has come from heaven.

9. What do we learn from the Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus?

a. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the One who fills you with wonder.

b. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be just like any other religious leader.c. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Giver of spiritual life. d. When you encounter Jesus you will find Him to be the Exposer of your sins.

10. How did Jesus deal with the nobleman who requested Him to heal his son?

a. Despite the nobleman’s imposition, Jesus willingly did just what the man requested.b. Because the man had difficulty accepting Jesus’ terms, Jesus refused to heal his son.c. In order for his son to be healed, the nobleman was compelled to trust in Jesus’

divine word.

11. What lessons should we learn from the incident in which Jesus healed the paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda?

a. We can look to Jesus for mercy because He shows mercy to even the most undeserving.

b. We can look to Jesus for mercy because he will never carry out the judgment of God.c. We can look to Jesus for mercy and then we must extend that same mercy to

others.

12. Complete the sentences listed below that discuss why self-righteous people harbor such intense prejudice against Jesus.

a. Jesus, by His life as the Holy One of God, displays before us the righteousness God requires.

b. Jesus, by His teaching as the Son of God, expounds for us the true requirements of God’s law.

c. Jesus, by His identity as the Lamb of God, confronts us with our need for a Savior to bear our sins.

13. Because Jesus is the all-sufficient Savior, what can we trust Him to do for us?

a. We can trust the Lord Jesus to combat the stratagems of the devil. b. We can trust the Lord Jesus to satisfy our every desire.c. We can trust the Lord Jesus to sustain us in times of crisis.

14. What does Jesus means when He counsels us to work for the food that lasts for eternal life?

a. We are to earnestly pray that the Lord would always supply us with our daily portion of bread to sustain our bodies so that we will never go hungry.

b. We must believe in the Lord Jesus as our Savior and, relying upon His grace, dedicate ourselves to being His disciples.

c. We must make every effort to reform our lives in the endeavor to personally merit the right to enter the kingdom of heaven.

15. Precisely because He is in charge, we should not expect Christ to cater to any challenge to deviate from His pre-determined course assigned to Him by God His Father—we should not expect Him to deviate from carrying out His purpose for His church collectively or for our lives individually, and from carrying out that divine purpose in His time and in the way He sees fit. True of False

16. What does Jesus counsel spiritually thirsty people to do?

a. They are to join a local church.b. They are to make confession to a priest or minister.c. They are to come directly to Jesus. d. They are to get in harmony with nature.

17. Which of the following statements accurately describe the situation of the woman whom we meet in John 8?

a. She had been caught in the very act of sin. b. She found Jesus to be unsympathetic.c. She stood condemned by the law of God. d. She was surrounded by her accusers.

18. In this passage the Lord Jesus makes three great promises that require commitment. Match those promises with the descriptions that best define them.

a. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall be delivered out of the state of spiritual darkness and increasingly come to experience the life that is pleasing to God and that enjoys His fellowship. You shall have the light of life.

b. If you commit yourself to Jesus you will be delivered from the bondage and corruption of sin. The truth shall make you free.

c. If you commit yourself to Jesus you shall forever share in the life of Jesus and He will finally bring you into the fullness of life in His Father’s kingdom. You shall never see death.

19. Match the descriptions given below with the persons to whom they pertain.

a. He must resist the temptation to shut his eyes to the enlightening presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Sinner

b. He must look to Christ for enlightenment and then respond to Him in faith and commitment. The Potential Disciple

c. He must continue to look to Christ for greater enlightenment with regard to the ways of God and the life that is pleasing to God. The Disciple

20. Because Jesus is the Good Shepherd we can entrust ourselves to Him with complete confidence. Complete the sentences listed below that describe the various aspects of this confidence.

a. We can be confident that Jesus will neither reject us nor disappoint us.b. We can be confident that Jesus will protect our souls, even though we may be called to pass

through severe trial.c. We can be confident that Jesus will provide for all our needs.

21. In John 10 we are informed that the chief characteristic of Christ’s sheep is a God-given faith/feeling that enables them to respond to the Shepherd’s voice and follow Him. Choose the correct answer.

22. What lesson(s) should we as Christians learn from the events described in John 11?

a. We should learn that because of His great love for us, Jesus will spare us from all adversity and tribulation.

b. We should learn that, although Jesus may lead us through tribulation, we may be assured of His love for us.

c. We should learn that if we trust Christ—especially at those times when we encounter tribulation—we shall come to behold the glory of God and experience His blessing.

23. Why we must refrain from fighting against God?

a. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is very foolish. b. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is futile. c. We must refrain from fighting against God because to do so is self-destructive. d. “A” and “B” above

GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT AND AN ESSAY

A. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING A BOOK REPORT

Write a separate report for each book or article. The reports for each book or article should not be more than two or three pages long each.

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Title: Author: Pages read: Editor: City of publisher: Year of publication:

REPORT

1. Outline of contents 2. Brief Summary (Write a summary of what the author says, without your own comments) 3. Critical Evaluation (Express your opinion about what the author says. Is it clear,precise, confusing, well-documented, out of context, too simple, too complicated, biblical, too technical? Did you like it? Defend your opinion.) 4. Personal Application to Your Life and Ministry (What impact did this reading have on your life and ministry? Was it helpful? How did it help? Be specific.) 5. Personal questions that come from the reading

B. GUIDELINES FOR WRITING AN ESSAY

By Dr. Richard B. Ramsay

Introduction

An essay is a literary form that analyzes a specific topic in order to inform, explain, persuade, defend an opinion, or to stir interest. It is a more serious style, formal and academic. It is not fiction or comedy. Neither is it poetry, but prose. It should make a contribution to the reader in terms of new concepts or information.

The following guidelines will help you edit an essay:

1. Decide on a unique and specific idea

An essay should express the idea of you, the author, instead of simply repeating the ideas of others. It is not simply a research report, but personal reflection. Of course, you may take into account the ideas of others, but you should utilize these ideas to support your own point, or maybe to make a contrast with your view.

The author should have something in mind that he wants to communicate and focus on one main point. For example, the essay could have the purpose of convincing the reader that Christ is sufficient for our salvation, or that Augustine was the most important theologian of his time, or that Genesis 3 explains all the problems of humanity. The different parts of the essay present evidence or arguments that either support the central idea, illustrate the idea, or show contrasting views. However, the content of the different parts of the essay should not stray away from the main point of the essay as a whole.

2. Do careful research

The student should reflect on the topic that he or she wishes to study, and begin reading and collecting information and quotes. He should write down the bibliographical data for the quote or idea, including

author, title, place of publication, publishing company, and year. Use cards, a notebook, or even better, write notes in a computer word processor. Afterwards, organize the notes into groups according to topic. You should begin focusing on what you consider important and discard things that are not related to your topic, even though they may be interesting. Concentrate on a few ideas that are related to the central theme of the essay.

3. Write an appropriate title

The title of the essay should clearly communicate the main theme. It should not be too general, but rather point to a specific topic. For example, if you want to write about the physical consequences of the Fall in Genesis 3, the title should not be, “Man’s Problem,” or “Genesis 3,” but “The Physical Consequences of the Fall According to Genesis 3.” Neither should the title be too specific, pointing only to one aspect of the essay. For example, if the author wishes to write about all the physical consequences of the Fall, the title should not be “Why Women Give Birth in Pain” but rather as mentioned before, “The Physical Consequences of the Fall According to Genesis 3.”

4. Organize your ideas in a good outline

An essay should have at least three main sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. The introduction stirs interest in the essay and explains what it is about. The body is the main development of the theme, and normally has several subdivisions. The conclusion summarizes the argument of the essay and shows what the author considers to be most important.

If the essay is well organized, the ideas are easy to follow. The writer should imagine that he is dialoguing with the reader, anticipating his questions and presenting answers. The reader should be able to follow the thread of thought even with a quick glance at the introduction, the titles of the sections, and the conclusion.

There are various ways to organize an essay. 1) If the purpose of the essay is to inform about something historical, it may be organized in chronological order. 2) If the purpose is to analyze a philosophical concept, the writer may want to first give the historical background, then explain how the concept is expressed in our day, then give a biblical analysis of the thought. 3) If the author wishes to persuade the reader of his point of view of some issue, he may use logical order, first presenting a premise, then a second premise, and the logical conclusion. 4) If the purpose is to arouse interest in a cause, he may present different dimensions of the problem in order of increasing seriousness. 5) Some people like to use illustrations to demonstrate a truth, organizing them to point toward the central idea, like the hands of a clock that meet in the center. 6) If the author wants to present a new idea, he may first show how it is similar to other ideas, then show how it is different from those ideas.  7) One might analyze a event, showing first the causes, then the effects. 8) New information may be presented by giving definitions and classifications. There are many ways to organize an essay, but the writer should decide how to organize it and be consistent with the plan.

Make a good outline to assure good organization. The body of the essay (all but the introduction and conclusion) normally has at least two main divisions, each with at least two subdivisions. If there is only one subdivision, it is not really a subdivision but the main point. The main divisions should contain ideas that are equal in importance, but distinct in content. The subdivisions should contain ideas that are subordinate to the main division, and equal in importance among each other.

The traditional system of numbering is to use roman numbers for the main divisions, capital letters for the subdivisions, numbers for the next subdivisions, and small letters for the next, as follows:

The Letter to the Romans

     I. Doctrine

                 A. Sin

                             1. The wrath of God against sin

                             2. All men are sinners

                 B. Justification by faith

                 C. Sanctification by faith

                 D. Eternal security

     II. Practical exhortations

                 A. Love

                 B. Submission to authorities

etc.

The introduction of the essay does not have a number or letter. Neither does the conclusion. 

     Introduction

     I.

                 A.

                             1.

                             2.

                 B.

     II.

     III.

     Conclusion

Alternative classification systems are acceptable. The student needs to be consistent and not mix classifications systems. For example, the numerical system is also acceptable.

INTRODUCTION

1. 1.1.

1.2 2. 2.1. 2.2. 3. 3.1. 3.1.1.

3.1.23.2

CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

5. Write coherent paragraphs

A paragraph is the key unit of the essay. Review each paragraph to make sure that:

1) All the sentences of the paragraph deal with the same subject.

2) The paragraph has normally from 3-10 sentences. If there is only one sentence, it should become part of another paragraph, or maybe other sentences can be added to complete the paragraph.

3) The central idea of the paragraph is expressed in the first or last sentence (normally).

4) The other sentences contribute to the point of the paragraph, supporting, showing contrast, or giving illustrations.

5) The paragraph is well organized. The paragraphs may follow any of the same organization styles that were mentioned in point 4 regarding the essay as whole.

6) The sentences are clearly readable. Long sentences should be divided into two or more sentences. Avoid incomplete sentences without a main verb.

7) Transition words and phrases are included when there is a change in thought (such as “however,” “furthermore,” and “on the other hand.”) The reader needs to see the relationship between different points. Try reading the paragraph out loud. If it is not smooth, you probably need to modify it.

Do not hesitate to eliminate sentences that are not related to the main theme of the paragraph. They might belong better in another paragraph, they might be material for a whole new paragraph, or they might be completely unnecessary.

6. Use footnotes properly

You must indicate all sources of ideas with footnotes, even if it is not a direct quote. You may use one of the two possible formats. However, you must be consistent within the essay, always using the same format.

A. MLA Style (Modern Language Association)

NOTE: This is the preferred style of MINTS.

This style puts the minimum information in parentheses, and takes advantage of the full information given in the bibliography at the back of the book, article, or essay.

For example, if the book in the bibliography is the following, …

Marcuse, Sybyl. A Survey of Musical Instruments. New York: Harper, 1975.

…then within the text, only the author’s name and the page number are necessary. For example, if the quote is taken from page 197, after the quote within the essay there should be a parenthesis as follows:

(Marcuse 197)

If there is more than one book by the same author, a short version of the title should be included, as follows:

(Marcuse, Survey 197)

If the author’s name is mentioned within the essay, only the page number is necessary:

(197)

B. Chicago Manual of Style

This style gives more information in the notes. You should put a number in the text, after the quote or information used, in superscript, as seen here8. Then at the bottom of the page, put the footnote. (The

footnotes may also be put at the end of each chapter, or at the end of the book, but we prefer them at the bottom of the page.)

If you do not have full information in the bibliography, use the following pattern:

  8 Author [first name, then last name], Title of the book [in italics] (city of publication: publishing company, year) [between parentheses, with a colon between city and publisher, then a coma before the year, just as it appears here], page or pages cited.

Here is an example:

8  Federico García Lorca, Bodas de Sangre (Barcelona: Ayma, S.A., 1971), 95.

On the other hand, if you do have full information in the bibliography, you may simply put the author, title, and page number. The reader can find the rest of the information in the bibliography at the back.

Here is an example:

8 Federico García Lorca, Bodas de Sangre, 95.

7. Include a bibliography

At the end of the essay, you should include a bibliography, listing all the books, articles, and web sites that you used for the essay. The format for the bibliography is slightly different from the footnote. The last name goes first in this case. There are no parentheses and no page number. The author’s last name should not be indented, but if the entry uses more than one line, the other lines are all indented. Look at the following examples.

The list must be in alphabetical order, according to the last names of the authors.

García Lorca, Federico. Bodas de Sangre. Barcelona: Ayma, S.A., 1971.

Marcuse, Sybyl. A Survey of Musical Instruments. New York: Harper, 1975.

8. Resources

Use the following sources for other help with editing and style:

1. Joseph Gibaldi, ed., MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers. New York: Modern Language Association of America, 1999. (Currently the 6th edition is the latest.) NOTE: This is the official guideline for MINTS.

Some web sites contain portions of the MLS standards: http://www.bedfordstmartins.com/online/cite5.html http://www.dianahacker.com/resdoc/p04_c08_o.html

2. The Chicago Manual of Style. (Chicago: University of Chicago Press.)

See online Manual: http://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/home.html See the following web site for information about this book and about electronic resources: http://www.docstyles.com/cmsguide.htm

See also the following web site for exercises to improve your grammar and writing style.http://go.hrw.com/hhb/

You may also use the following books for reference:

Kate L. Turabian, A Manual for Writers. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, latest edition.

Kirszner, Laurie G., and Mandell, Stephen, The Holt Handbook. Philadelphia: Harcourt Brace.

9. Essay Evaluation (This section gives guidelines for MINTS directors or professors who grade essays.)

Include the following aspects in the evaluation of an essay.

1. CONTENTIdentification of theme/thesisDevelopment of theme/thesisConclusion to theme/thesisEducational contentTheological content

2. STYLETitle pageIndexTitlesReferencesGeneral presentation

3. GRAMMARGrammar in generalVocabularyParagraph structureSentence structurePunctuation

4. VERIFICATIONArgumentationUse of resourcesQuotationsFootnotesBibliography

5. APPLICATIONFaithfulness to the Biblical revelationHelpful for obeying the Great CommissionIdentification of spiritual needsPresentation of Biblical solutions to the spiritual needs that were presentedMotivation for future studies

10. Style of Title Page and Table of Contents

TITLE OF THE ESSAY

NAME OF THE AUTHOR

NAME AND CODE OF THE COURSEName of the Professor

Name of the Educational Institution

Date

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Classical style)

TITLE OF THE ESSAY INTRODUCTION I. A. 1. 2. B. 1. 2. II. A. B. CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Numerical style)

TITLE OF THE ESSAY

INTRODUCTION

1. 1.1. 1.2 2. 2.1. 2.1.1. 2.1.2. 2.2. 3. 3.1. 3.2.

CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY

A Final Word

There are many ways to write a good essay, and creativity is welcome. However, there are certain guidelines that help you communicate better. Probably the greatest challenge is to make your writing clear and easy to understand. It should be pleasant to read, and not hard work. Read your essay over and over until you are satisfied. The more you work on it, the easier it will be to understand. Have a friend or family member read your essay before you send it in. Also, read the essay aloud to see if the sentences communicate what you want to say and how you want to say it. Your essay should be so good that others want to publish it!