28.10.09
Jesus is the Christ!
John 8: 21-30
21Once more Jesus said to them, "I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come."
22This made the Jews ask, "Will he kill himself? Is that why he says, 'Where I go, you cannot come'?"
23But he continued, "You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. 24I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be,[a] you will indeed die in your sins."
25"Who are you?" they asked.
"Just what I have been claiming all along," Jesus replied. 26 "I have much to say in judgment of you. But he who sent me is reliable, and what I have heard from him I tell the world."
27 They did not understand that he was telling them about his Father. 28 So Jesus said, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be and that I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me. 29The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him." 30Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him.
一、 Content：
1>（v21-24）Jesus claimed that He was to go to the Father and warned those who did not believe in Him that they would die in their sins.
2>（v25-27）Because the crowd was doubtful about what He claimed to be, once more Jesus emphasized that God sent Him.
3>（v28-29）Jesus foretold of His crucifixion and stressed on His relationship with God the Father.
4>（v30） Many put their faith in Him because of His words.
Subject:
1>Jesus is the Christ!
2>Those who disbelieve will die in sin.
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit?
01>（v21） Jesus Christ was about to return to His heavenly home.
02>I am from above（v23）Jesus Christ is from above and He is not of the world.
03>（v24）Jesus Christ is the I AM.
04>（v25）Jesus Christ holds the authority to judge ( to condemn).
05>（v26）God sent Jesus Christ to the world.
06>（v26）The truthful God.
07>（v26、v28）Jesus Christ proclaims God’s Word to the world.
08>（v27）Jesus Christ was to be crucified by the world.
09>（v29）God whose presence is always with Jesus Christ.
10>（v29）Jesus Christ pleased God in everything He did.
11>（v30）Jesus Christ who is worthy of trust.
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1>Back to Heaven with His mission completed 21Once more Jesus said to them, "I am going away, and you will look for me,” (v21a)
Jesus told His followers that He was going away and they would look for Him. His word indicated that He was to die on the cross and that He was about to complete His mission and go to His Father.
Reflection: During the days of my life, do I clearly understand the mission Jesus entrusts me? Am I confident that one day I will go to Heaven with my mission completed like Jesus did?
2> Those who disbelieve cannot be where Jesus is “,
and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come." (v21b)
1"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God[a]; trust also in me. 2In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (John 14:1-3) This was a sure promise of Jesus. However, why did He say that they could not go where He was going? It was because the Jews did not believe Him. Surely, whoever does not believe in Jesus cannot be where He is.
Reflection: Do I really believe the promise that Jesus went to prepare a place for me? Do I doubt it? Do I anticipate its coming? Do I have the confidence that one day I will go there and be with Jesus?
3> Die in sins
21 Once more Jesus said to them, "I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come." (v21) 24I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be,[a] you will indeed die in your sins." (v24)
To the disbelieving Jews, Jesus stressed that they were to die in their sins. To die in sin sends a clear message and is a serious issue. Dying in sin is resulted from the first mankind’s sin against God which led to the separation from God. However, to reconcile mankind to God Himself, He sent His one and only Son to the world to be the Mediator between God and men. Whoever believes in Jesus is reconciled to God and those who disbelieve will forever be separated from God and end up with spiritual death.
Reflection: In what state is my life? Am I separated from God and am I in the state of dying in sin? Have I received eternal life through faith in Jesus? Is there anyone among my friends and family that has not asked Jesus to be their personal Savior and will be dying in sin? How can I help them?
4> The world above and the world below
23But he continued, "You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. (v23) We learn from Jesus’ words that there are two worlds: the world above and the world below; the former is of heaven and the latter is of Earth. In other words, one is of God and the other is of this world. As Jesus descended from the heaven to the world, whoever believes in Jesus will enter with Jesus into the world above from the world below.
Reflection: Do I live for this life (the earthly world)? Have I ever lived for the eternity (the heavenly world)?
5>Speaking what The Father instructed
26"…But he who sent me is reliable, and what I have heard from him I tell the world." (v26)
“…speak just what the Father has taught me.” (v28)
Whatever Jesus’ teaching was, it was never of His own ideas. Rather, it was totally based on God’s revelation. He told and taught people what He heard from God. Apparently, Jesus not only was God’s perfect representative to the world, but also He was the perfect example of being submissive to God.
Reflection: Do I follow Jesus’ example to let every word from my mouth be pleasing to God?
6> Do what pleases God
“…I do nothing on my own (v28b) “…for I always do what pleases him.” (v29b) Jesus spoke only what God had revealed and taught. He did not act by His own will but fully by God’s. He always did what pleased God.
Reflection: Is what I do in concert with God’s will? Does it please Him?
7>Jesus said, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am the one I claim to be.” (v28a) To the Jews who disbelieved, who rejected Him and who intended to take His life, Jesus declared, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man (by nailing Him to the cross), then you will know that I am the one I claim to be.”
Reflection: It was the Jews who had nailed Jesus to the cross back then. However, as of today am I still hurting and crucifying Him?
8> The Father is with the Son always
29”The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him." (v29a) God the Father who sent Jesus to the world had never forsaken nor had He left Jesus alone in the world. God was with Him all the time. However, the only account that God had temporarily left Jesus was the moment when Jesus was punished for all humanity’s sin-debts on the cross. The Scriptures recorded,34And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"[c](Mark 15:34)
Thus, Jesus understood the excruciating agony of being temporarily abandoned by God. The Father is not only with Jesus but also is with us always. Life in God is full of peace, joy, hope, abundance and richness. On the contrary, life without God is empty, hopeless, desolate, gloomy and sorrowful.
Reflection: Do I expect that God is always with me? Do I often welcome His presence? Am I doing my best to walk with God and to anticipate the enjoyment of a peaceful, joyful, expectant, abundant and content life?
Translated by 曾秀娟
Jesus Christ is the Light of the world
John 8:12-20
12When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
13The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."
14Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. 15You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. 17In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. 18I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me."
19Then they asked him, "Where is your father?"
"You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." 20He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come.
一、 Content
1>（v12）Jesus Christ proclaimed that He is the Light of the world. Thus, whoever follows Him will receive the Light of life.
2>（v13）Pharisees challenged Jesus Christ by saying, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."
3>（v14-18）Jesus used "Knowing myself" and "Standing with the Father" as reasons to support his claim of "My testimony is valid" to defend Himself
4>（v19）People asked Him, "Where is your father?" Jesus replied "You do not know me or my Father, if you knew me; you would know my Father also." 5>（v20） V.20 stated the location where Jesus preached and mentioned that His time had not yet come, thus no one seized Him.
Subject: Jesus Christ is the Light of the world
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit?
1>（v12）Jesus Christ is the Light of the world (the Light of life)
2>（v16）God sent Jesus Christ into the world.
3>（v16）Jesus Christ was sent into the world by God
4>（v16）God’s presence is always with Jesus Christ.
5>（v16）Jesus Christ is always in God’s presence.
6>（v18）God testifies for Jesus Christ.
7>（v19）Father God and Jesus Christ are one. 8>（v19） Jesus Christ and Father God are one.
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1>Jesus Christ is the Light of the world
When Jesus spoke to the people again, he said, "I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life." （v12）Jesus often used parables to proclaim His true identity while He was with us in this world. For example: "I am the bread of life." （6:35）, "I am the gate"（10:9）, "I am the good shepherd." （10:11）, "I am the true vine"（15:1）, "I am the way and the truth and the life." （14:6）. Here, Jesus proclaimed that He is the Light of the world and emphasized that whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life.
Reflection: Concerning the identity of Lord Jesus, which include: the bread of life, the gate, the good shepherd; the true vine, the way and the truth and the life, the light of life, etc.… have I thoroughly meditated on each of them? What is my relationship with Lord Jesus? Do I walk in the light instead of walking in sin and darkness for the sake of Jesus Christ,?
2>Away from sin and darkness
When Jesus spoke to the people again, he said, "I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." （v12）Those who have experienced walking or driving in the dark understands the importance of light. With light, we can see the direction and destination and avoid danger around us. The world is controlled by Satan and thus there is no truth. Therefore, the whole world is overwhelmed by darkness resulting in people’s lives becoming "chaotic and out of order, deprived of meaning and without direction". Because the Lord Jesus is the Light of life, He brings order to all humanity, brings back the meaning and the direction of life to mankind. Sin will be revealed when the light of Jesus Christ shines.
Reflection: Is my life built in order with meaning and direction because of Jesus Christ? Have all the hidden sins in my life been revealed, shone upon, purified and cleaned by Jesus Christ?
3>Only God can judge
13The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid." 14Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. 15You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. （v13-16）
Human beings judge by outward appearance, but God sees the heart. Human beings can misjudge, but God never does. Jesus Christ is God; He and God are one. Therefore, His judgment is reliable. As human beings, we do not have the authority nor the wisdom to judge. Only Jesus Christ has the authority and wisdom to judge.
Reflection: Do I always hold a self-righteous attitude or see myself as a judge so that I criticize and place judgment on others? Remember! I am not flawless and I am also a sinner. Therefore, I should give the authority of judging others back to God.
4>Father and Son stay and work together
"In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me." （v17-18）
According to the law, the validity of a testimony requires two witnesses. Therefore, the leader of the Jews countered Jesus’ testimony and reinforced that one person’s testimony can not be considered valid. However, Jesus retaliated that He was not alone and there is also the Father who sent Him to testify with Him. Obviously, the Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ are originally one. Especially when the Heavenly Father permanently stays with Lord Jesus Christ but He also works with Lord Jesus Christ as well.
Reflection: Heavenly Father not only stays and works with Jesus Christ, at the same time He is with us and He works with us as well. Do I believe this? Do I welcome it or not? Do I accept it? Do I understand it or not? 5> Jesus Christ totally represents the Heavenly Father
（v19B）"You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." （v19B）
Lord Jesus Christ answered the people who questioned Him, "You do not know me or my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also." John 1:18 said: "No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known." Clearly, the One and Only is Lord Jesus Christ.
When you know Lord Jesus Christ, you also know the Heavenly Father. Therefore, Jesus Christ can totally represent Heavenly Father. He is not only fully human but also fully God. Jesus Christ is part of the trinity.
Reflection: Do I get to know Lord Jesus Christ more thoroughly through reading the Bible and praying? And do I get to know the Heavenly Father through Lord Jesus Christ?
6>God’s time table
（v20）He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come. （v20）
God is excellent in planning. His perfect plans start from the whole human history down to every man’s daily life. His predestined plans included the birth of Jesus, his work, his crucifixion, his resurrection, his ascension, etc…. When Jesus was still in the world, even though he knew he was about to be crucified, he often said, “My time has not yet come.” In the book of John, these words are repeatedly found. For example: John 2:4, 7:30, 8:20, 12:23 and 27, 13:1, 17:1. Nothing is a coincidence in God’s hands, everything is planned.
Reflection: In my life or my service to God as someone who knows and serves Him, do I seek God’s will in everything I do? Do I follow God’s timing or do I follow my own?
Translated by 曾秀娟
12When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
13The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."
14Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. 15You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. 17In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. 18I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me."
19Then they asked him, "Where is your father?"
"You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." 20He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come.
一、 Content
1>（v12）Jesus Christ proclaimed that He is the Light of the world. Thus, whoever follows Him will receive the Light of life.
2>（v13）Pharisees challenged Jesus Christ by saying, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."
3>（v14-18）Jesus used "Knowing myself" and "Standing with the Father" as reasons to support his claim of "My testimony is valid" to defend Himself
4>（v19）People asked Him, "Where is your father?" Jesus replied "You do not know me or my Father, if you knew me; you would know my Father also." 5>（v20） V.20 stated the location where Jesus preached and mentioned that His time had not yet come, thus no one seized Him.
Subject: Jesus Christ is the Light of the world
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit?
1>（v12）Jesus Christ is the Light of the world (the Light of life)
2>（v16）God sent Jesus Christ into the world.
3>（v16）Jesus Christ was sent into the world by God
4>（v16）God’s presence is always with Jesus Christ.
5>（v16）Jesus Christ is always in God’s presence.
6>（v18）God testifies for Jesus Christ.
7>（v19）Father God and Jesus Christ are one. 8>（v19） Jesus Christ and Father God are one.
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1>Jesus Christ is the Light of the world
When Jesus spoke to the people again, he said, "I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life." （v12）Jesus often used parables to proclaim His true identity while He was with us in this world. For example: "I am the bread of life." （6:35）, "I am the gate"（10:9）, "I am the good shepherd." （10:11）, "I am the true vine"（15:1）, "I am the way and the truth and the life." （14:6）. Here, Jesus proclaimed that He is the Light of the world and emphasized that whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life.
Reflection: Concerning the identity of Lord Jesus, which include: the bread of life, the gate, the good shepherd; the true vine, the way and the truth and the life, the light of life, etc.… have I thoroughly meditated on each of them? What is my relationship with Lord Jesus? Do I walk in the light instead of walking in sin and darkness for the sake of Jesus Christ,?
2>Away from sin and darkness
When Jesus spoke to the people again, he said, "I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." （v12）Those who have experienced walking or driving in the dark understands the importance of light. With light, we can see the direction and destination and avoid danger around us. The world is controlled by Satan and thus there is no truth. Therefore, the whole world is overwhelmed by darkness resulting in people’s lives becoming "chaotic and out of order, deprived of meaning and without direction". Because the Lord Jesus is the Light of life, He brings order to all humanity, brings back the meaning and the direction of life to mankind. Sin will be revealed when the light of Jesus Christ shines.
Reflection: Is my life built in order with meaning and direction because of Jesus Christ? Have all the hidden sins in my life been revealed, shone upon, purified and cleaned by Jesus Christ?
3>Only God can judge
13The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid." 14Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. 15You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. （v13-16）
Human beings judge by outward appearance, but God sees the heart. Human beings can misjudge, but God never does. Jesus Christ is God; He and God are one. Therefore, His judgment is reliable. As human beings, we do not have the authority nor the wisdom to judge. Only Jesus Christ has the authority and wisdom to judge.
Reflection: Do I always hold a self-righteous attitude or see myself as a judge so that I criticize and place judgment on others? Remember! I am not flawless and I am also a sinner. Therefore, I should give the authority of judging others back to God.
4>Father and Son stay and work together
"In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me." （v17-18）
According to the law, the validity of a testimony requires two witnesses. Therefore, the leader of the Jews countered Jesus’ testimony and reinforced that one person’s testimony can not be considered valid. However, Jesus retaliated that He was not alone and there is also the Father who sent Him to testify with Him. Obviously, the Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ are originally one. Especially when the Heavenly Father permanently stays with Lord Jesus Christ but He also works with Lord Jesus Christ as well.
Reflection: Heavenly Father not only stays and works with Jesus Christ, at the same time He is with us and He works with us as well. Do I believe this? Do I welcome it or not? Do I accept it? Do I understand it or not? 5> Jesus Christ totally represents the Heavenly Father
（v19B）"You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also." （v19B）
Lord Jesus Christ answered the people who questioned Him, "You do not know me or my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also." John 1:18 said: "No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known." Clearly, the One and Only is Lord Jesus Christ.
When you know Lord Jesus Christ, you also know the Heavenly Father. Therefore, Jesus Christ can totally represent Heavenly Father. He is not only fully human but also fully God. Jesus Christ is part of the trinity.
Reflection: Do I get to know Lord Jesus Christ more thoroughly through reading the Bible and praying? And do I get to know the Heavenly Father through Lord Jesus Christ?
6>God’s time table
（v20）He spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come. （v20）
God is excellent in planning. His perfect plans start from the whole human history down to every man’s daily life. His predestined plans included the birth of Jesus, his work, his crucifixion, his resurrection, his ascension, etc…. When Jesus was still in the world, even though he knew he was about to be crucified, he often said, “My time has not yet come.” In the book of John, these words are repeatedly found. For example: John 2:4, 7:30, 8:20, 12:23 and 27, 13:1, 17:1. Nothing is a coincidence in God’s hands, everything is planned.
Reflection: In my life or my service to God as someone who knows and serves Him, do I seek God’s will in everything I do? Do I follow God’s timing or do I follow my own?
Translated by 曾秀娟
27.10.09
Committing a sin, sinning, condemnation of sin, and pardoning of sin.
John 8:1-11
1But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. 3The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" 6They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." 8Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
9At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"
11"No one, sir," she said.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."
1. Core Message
Content
- Jesus diligently teaches in the temple courts everyday. (v. 1-2)
- The teachers of the law and Pharisees deliberately put God to test. (v. 4-6)
- The wise reply of Jesus solved the dilemma. (v. 7-9)
- Jesus pardoned the woman caught in adultery.
Themes
- Committing a sin, sinning, condemnation of sin, and pardoning of sin.
- What does someone deserve of his or her sins?
2. Who are God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit?
- Jesus being able to attract the crowd (v. 2)
- Jesus being a good teacher (v. 2)
- Jesus being tested (accused and trapped) (v. 6)
- Jesus being full of wisdom in his reply and every situation (v. 7-9)
- Jesus being compassionate (v. 11)
- Jesus having the power to forgive sins (v. 11)
3. What Lessons (Command, Covenant, Role Modeling, Rebuking, and Warning) Are God Teaching Us?
Intro: With the woman caught in adultery, the teachers of the law and Pharisees were deliberately trapping Jesus in order to accuse him of his unrighteousness. But Jesus’ wise reply solved the dilemma. While full of compassion, Jesus pardoned the woman’s sin. In terms of sins, what the teachers of the law and Pharisees have done is even worse and more sinful than what the woman caught in adultery has done.
- The religious figures and their conspiracy
The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery. In the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such woman. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis to accuse him. (v. 3-6a)
The teachers of the law and the Pharisees are a group of hypocrites who are deceitful, full of conspiracy, ascetical, vicious and abusive of their powers. Although the teachers of the law and the Pharisees appeared to be fearful of God and obedient to the Law on the surface, they conducted loathsome actions like conspiracy planning. They intentionally used the weak woman as a “lamb waiting to be slaughtered” to fulfill the purpose of accusing Jesus’ unrighteousness.
From the power perspective, the teachers of the law and the Pharisees are quite skillful at how they practiced their authority. They have set up a trap that placed Jesus in a grave dilemma. If Jesus had said not to stone the woman, he will be disobeying the Law Moses commanded, however, if Jesus had said to stone the woman, he will then be violating the Roman Law of exercising private execution.
The teachers of the law and the Pharisees had no sympathy toward the woman, and did not even treat her as a human being. Instead, they were deriving their pleasure from the woman’s misfortune and even attempted to use it as the tool to strike down Jesus. Moreover, in conviction of someone caught in adultery, both males and females hold equal responsibility. However, the teachers of the law and the Pharisees were only convicting the woman, showing that they are not ruler of righteousness. In God’s eyes, the actions of the teachers of the law and Pharisees are even worse and more sinful than what the woman caught in adultery has done.
- Jesus’ Response Is Full of Wisdom
When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. (v. 7-9)
Jesus is truly full of wisdom. Jesus was able to discern the conspiracy and the hypocrisy of the teachers and the Pharisees, saving not only himself from the dilemma, as well as the life of the woman caught in adultery.
- There is not a righteous man on earth, not a single one
At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. (v. 9)
When encountering the inquisitiveness of the teachers and the Pharisees, neither did Jesus say to stone the woman, nor did He say “not to” stone the woman. Jesus simply said, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first followed by the younger ones. According to the reaction of the crowd we can presume that there is really no righteous man on earth, not a single one.
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, … (Roman 3:23)
- Jesus Christ who is full of mercy and compassion
Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then, neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (v. 10-11)
Jesus was merciful and compassionate toward the woman caught in adultery. Jesus did not condemn her sin but gave her the opportunity to start anew. Not condemning the woman’s sin does not mean that Jesus was supportive of her; rather Jesus was opening another door through a grace that is beyond what the Law is capable of. Nonetheless, one very important point is the fact that Jesus told the woman to “leave her life of sin.” Is not our saving through Jesus Christ also a door that is opened through the grace of God that is way beyond what the Law is capable of? It certainly is!
- The woman who was joyful of becoming new
“Then, neither do I condemn you, “ Jesus declared. “ Go now and leave your life of sin.” (v. 11b) By looking at her circumstance, it is obvious that the woman caught in adultery is also to be blamed. Unfortunately, she has become the target of exploitation that was used as a tool to trap Jesus. At the moment, she was horrified, scared, ashamed and helpless just like a lamb waiting to be slaughtered. However, due to Jesus’ compassion and mercy, the woman was unexpectedly saved and made new. This is considered as bewildering peace, joy and hope. The woman’s life was change because of Jesus Christ.
Self-Reflection
- Do I behave like those hypocritical religious figures that consider themselves as righteous and are constantly condemning others of their sins?
- If I were in the situation, will I be stoning the woman or will I walk away?
- Do I also have the joyful experience of being saved and becoming new in Christ like the woman in this passage?
4. Prayer/Application
Dear God, please help me and grant me the wisdom of the Spirit so that I may see the nature of my sin. Grant me the courage and strength to be able to remove my mask of hypocrisy and flattering righteousness. From now on, may I seek constant self-reflection and not condemning the sins of others.
Translated by: Kristin Chen
26.10.09
Streams of living water
John 7:37~52
37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.
40 On hearing his words, some of the people said, "Surely this man is the Prophet."
41 Others said, "He is the Christ."
Still others asked, "How can the Christ come from Galilee? 42 Does not the Scripture say that the Christ will come from David's family and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?" 43 Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. 44 Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.
45 Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, "Why didn't you bring him in?"
46 "No one ever spoke the way this man does," the guards declared.
47 "You mean he has deceived you also?" the Pharisees retorted. 48 "Has any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? 49 No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law—there is a curse on them."
50 Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, 51 "Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?"
52 They replied, "Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee."
I. Message:
Content:
- Lord Jesus seizes the opportunity on the greatest day of the Feast to proclaim to the crowd that He is the living water (v. 37~39)
- The crowd was puzzled and began debating among themselves following Jesus’ claim (v. 41~44)
- Jewish leaders did not believe; the guards returned empty-handed; Nicodemus spoke up for Jesus (v. 46~52)
Themes:
- Streams of living water
- Courageous and steadfast Jesus
- Debate-inducing Jesus
- Foolish Jewish leaders
II. Who is God, Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit?
- Courageous and steadfast Jesus Christ faces challenges and fulfills His mission (v. 37)
- Jesus as the life-giving living water (v. 38)
- The Holy Spirit that comes down to dwell within us (v. 39)
- Jesus Christ that is about to be glorified (v. 39)
- Jesus Christ as the true prophet (v. 40)
- Jesus Christ as David’s heir (v. 42)
- Jesus Christ with authority in teaching and speech (v. 46)
III. What does the passage teach us (about commands, promises, examples, exhortations and warnings)?
1. Seize the opportunity
37 On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."
The Feast of Tabernacles is one of the most important feasts in the Jewish tradition. This Feast reminds the Israelites that they went through a number of years in the wilderness living in tents. This is also the time of harvest and gathering barley, wheat and grapes. Therefore the Feast also carries the meaning of harvest and thanksgiving and is also called the Feast of Ingathering. (Exodus 34:22)
On the last day of the Feast, the priest takes a golden jar to draw water in the Pool of Siloam, walks past the Water Gate and returns to the Temple. The ceremony is to commemorate God’s providence in water during the years they wandered in the desert. As the ceremony progresses, people begin to read Isaiah 12:3, “with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” At the same time, the crowd sings to praise and give thanks to the Lord.
In such a commemoration, thanksgiving and feast centered on water, Jesus used the term ‘living water’ to describe Himself and “said in a loud voice, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."” Lord Jesus knows how to seize the opportunity!
Reflections: evangelization requires zeal and wisdom. How can I seize every opportunity?
2. The meaning of the living water
The living water that Jesus talks about here has two meanings:
First, to quench spiritual thirst: our flesh may dry up, so does our spirit; dried flesh needs water while dried soul needs Jesus. It is the same in chapter 4 where Jesus talked about the living water with the Samaritan woman. This living water leads to eternal life.
Second, to foretell the coming of the Holy Spirit: on the Pentecost, as the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, they were filled with power and courage.
Reflections: is my life (soul) dried up, empty, lonely and hopeless? Is my life flowing with living water? Am I filled with the Spirit? Have I received spiritual gifts?
3. Receiving the Holy Spirit; Jesus being glorified
Jesus said this to point out that everyone who believes in Him will receive the Holy Spirit. At that time, “the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified” (v. 39). In this passage, apostle John linked “Jesus being glorified” and “disciples receiving the Spirit”. This is to show that the Spirit is to be poured out to church and believers to continue Jesus’ work on earth following His necessary steps: raised from the dead; ascended into Heaven; accomplished His mission; being glorified. There are proofs in the Book of Acts and disciples do receive the Spirit.
Reflections: Lord Jesus has already completed His task and been glorified. Have I received the Spirit? Do I act according to the Spirit’s guidance to continue Jesus’ work and to fulfill His great commission?
4. Evil powers gather
“Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, "Why didn't you bring him in?"” (v. 45) Usually the chief priests and Pharisees do not get along. However, they came together to find a way to get rid of Jesus. The Pharisees accused Jesus of violating the rules of the law while the chief priests accused Him of violating the Temple. These two powerful religious forces work hand in hand to form a strong evil power to eliminate Jesus. This is an example of finding allies in a lesser enemy to fight a common one.
5. Confusion of the Temple guards
“Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, "Why didn't you bring him in?" 46 "No one ever spoke the way this man does," the guards declared. 47 "You mean he has deceived you also?" the Pharisees retorted.” (v. 45~47)
The guards were instructed to arrest Jesus but were touched by His words and compelled to fear Him and then decided to return empty handed. Everyone was amazed by His teaching for He taught with authority, unlike the teachers of the law (Matthew 7:29). There was a huge difference between accusations made by the chief priests and the Pharisees and the Lord Jesus the guards encountered. This difference made them really confused.
6. Nicodemus’ defence
Nicodemus is referred to as a member of the Jewish ruling council, possibly one of the seventy ruling members. He is a Pharisee and visited Jesus at night to talk about rebirth. Clearly, he believed in Jesus.
At this moment, he stepped forward to defend Jesus by pointing out that the chief priests and the Pharisees did not follow the law in accusing Jesus. According to the Jewish law, there are steps to be completed before making a formal accusation. But they ignored such procedure. Nicodemus then decided to step forward to defend Jesus.
Nicodemus’ courage is worthy of praise. He was rebuked by the Pharisees and the chief priests, who explained that Jesus cannot be the promised prophet or the Messiah because He was born in Galilee.
Reflections: would I defend Jesus for truth and justice without worrying about setbacks like Nicodemus?
7. Which type pf person am I?
According to the descriptions of the crowd’s reaction, there may have been a few different types of people present:
- believe that Jesus is the Christ (v. 41);
- doubt about Jesus’ identity (v. 42~43);
- attracted by Jesus’ authority in teaching (v. 46);
- think about arresting Jesus and put Him to death (v. 45~49);
- defend Jesus (v. 51)
Reflections: if I was present at the scene, how would I have reacted?
Translated by 顏偉哲
21.10.09
Carry the mission and march to the affliction
John 7:25-36
Is Jesus the Christ?
25 At that point some of the people of Jerusalem began to ask, Isn't this the man they are trying to kill?
26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?
27 But we know where this man is from; when the Christ comes, no-one will know where he is from.
28 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him,
29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.
30 At this they tried to seize him, but no-one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.
31 Still, many in the crowd put their faith in him. They said, When the Christ comes, will he do more miraculous signs than this man?
32 The Pharisees heard the crowd whispering such things about him. Then the chief priests and the Pharisees sent temple guards to arrest him.
33 Jesus said, I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.
34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.
35 The Jews said to one another, Where does this man intend to go that we cannot find him? Will he go where our people live scattered among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks?
36 What did he mean when he said, 'You will look for me, but you will not find me,' and 'Where I am, you cannot come'?
1. Content：
1>（v25-27）People in Jerusalem were curious about Jesus’ lineage.
2>（v28-29）Once more, Jesus expressed that He came from God.
3>（v30）Though the power of the opposition was always on the move, no one laid hands on Jesus because the time had not yet come.
4>（v31）Many in the crowd believed Jesus.
5>（v32）The high priest and the Pharisees sent temple guards to arrest Jesus.
6>（v33-34）Jesus foretold His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension.
7>（v35-36）The crowds were whispering because they did not understand His words.
Subject:
1> Carry the mission and march to the affliction.
2> Seek while He may be found.
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit?
1. （V25、v32）Jesus Christ was to be arrested and killed. 2>（v26、v28）Jesus Christ taught and preached in public. 3>（v28-29）God sent Jesus Christ to the world. 4>（v28-29）Jesus Christ was sent to the world by God. 5>（v28）God is truthful. 6>（v29）Jesus Christ knows God. 7>（v33）Jesus Christ was about to complete the mission and return to God. 三、？ 1> Plotting against Jesus
25 At that point some of the people of Jerusalem began to ask, “Isn't this the man they are trying to kill? 26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?”
Although the religious leaders were determined to kill Jesus, still they were waiting for the right timing. It was because some from the crowd thought that he was a good man and even believed him. They did not take action out of fear of provoking anger among the crowd and that their image and their positions might be shaken.
They did not interfere Jesus’ preaching and watched on the side, they were waiting for the opportunity to collect more evidence in order to reasonably arrest and kill him. Finally, the crowd spoke up, “Isn't this the man they are trying to kill? 26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?” The Jewish leaders had successfully made their plot to arrest and kill Jesus the public’s opinion. What a conspiracy!
Reflection: In my service to God, what is my principle in dealing with people and handling issues? Do I have the integrity of being truthful? Do I plot against others?
2>Being faithful to the position as being sent by God
28 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, 29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” (v28-29) 33 Jesus said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.” (v33)
In fact, Jesus is God, yet He is faithful to His position and stresses on it. Other than that, Jesus clarifies that He does not speak on His own nor does He do things on His own. (See 7:16-17; 5:19) This is the attitude that whoever serves God should have. We are the people that God redeems, calls and sends. We should follow Jesus’ example of neither speaking nor doing things on our own. We should seek and submit to God’s will and do what He calls and sends us to do.
Reflection: While serving the Lord, am I faithful to the position as a steward? Or do I act on my own and usurp God’s authority?
3> A brave and steadfast proclamation
8 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, 29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” (v28-29)
Jesus was not unaware of the predicament He faced with the Jewish leaders that were plotting to kill Him. He knew that they could not bear to hear His proclamations of being sent by God and of being the Son of God. Thus, the more He talked about it, the more they rejected and hated Him and the more they were determined to kill Him.
Jesus could have chosen to keep a low profile and to be silent when He went for the feast. However, He chose to go against the current and showed up in the synagogue speaking in public. He spoke loud and clear about His position and where He was from. It revealed His steadfast, compelling and courageous determination.
Reflection: When faced with attacks and persecution, am I steadfast and courageous in spirit like Jesus was?
4> Embrace the opportunity to seek Him （v33-34）
33 Jesus said, I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me. 34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.
Jesus took the opportunity to foretell His crucifixion when the crowd was in Jerusalem for the feast. He said that He would rise up again after His death and return to God. Thus, He said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me. 34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.”
In Isaiah 55:6, Isaiah the prophet said, 6Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on Him while He is near. It is a reminder that we should embrace the opportunity to believe in Jesus and to receive the salvation.
Reflection: Do I embrace the opportunity to believe, to seek, to rely, to follow and to serve Him? Do I think that there is still much time for me and I can always come back and think about later on? Do I waste time and let the opportunity pass me by?
Translated by 曾秀娟
26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?
27 But we know where this man is from; when the Christ comes, no-one will know where he is from.
28 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him,
29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.
30 At this they tried to seize him, but no-one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.
31 Still, many in the crowd put their faith in him. They said, When the Christ comes, will he do more miraculous signs than this man?
32 The Pharisees heard the crowd whispering such things about him. Then the chief priests and the Pharisees sent temple guards to arrest him.
33 Jesus said, I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.
34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.
35 The Jews said to one another, Where does this man intend to go that we cannot find him? Will he go where our people live scattered among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks?
36 What did he mean when he said, 'You will look for me, but you will not find me,' and 'Where I am, you cannot come'?
1. Content：
1>（v25-27）People in Jerusalem were curious about Jesus’ lineage.
2>（v28-29）Once more, Jesus expressed that He came from God.
3>（v30）Though the power of the opposition was always on the move, no one laid hands on Jesus because the time had not yet come.
4>（v31）Many in the crowd believed Jesus.
5>（v32）The high priest and the Pharisees sent temple guards to arrest Jesus.
6>（v33-34）Jesus foretold His crucifixion, resurrection and ascension.
7>（v35-36）The crowds were whispering because they did not understand His words.
Subject:
1> Carry the mission and march to the affliction.
2> Seek while He may be found.
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit?
1. （V25、v32）Jesus Christ was to be arrested and killed. 2>（v26、v28）Jesus Christ taught and preached in public. 3>（v28-29）God sent Jesus Christ to the world. 4>（v28-29）Jesus Christ was sent to the world by God. 5>（v28）God is truthful. 6>（v29）Jesus Christ knows God. 7>（v33）Jesus Christ was about to complete the mission and return to God. 三、？ 1> Plotting against Jesus
25 At that point some of the people of Jerusalem began to ask, “Isn't this the man they are trying to kill? 26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?”
Although the religious leaders were determined to kill Jesus, still they were waiting for the right timing. It was because some from the crowd thought that he was a good man and even believed him. They did not take action out of fear of provoking anger among the crowd and that their image and their positions might be shaken.
They did not interfere Jesus’ preaching and watched on the side, they were waiting for the opportunity to collect more evidence in order to reasonably arrest and kill him. Finally, the crowd spoke up, “Isn't this the man they are trying to kill? 26 Here he is, speaking publicly, and they are not saying a word to him. Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Christ?” The Jewish leaders had successfully made their plot to arrest and kill Jesus the public’s opinion. What a conspiracy!
Reflection: In my service to God, what is my principle in dealing with people and handling issues? Do I have the integrity of being truthful? Do I plot against others?
2>Being faithful to the position as being sent by God
28 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, 29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” (v28-29) 33 Jesus said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me.” (v33)
In fact, Jesus is God, yet He is faithful to His position and stresses on it. Other than that, Jesus clarifies that He does not speak on His own nor does He do things on His own. (See 7:16-17; 5:19) This is the attitude that whoever serves God should have. We are the people that God redeems, calls and sends. We should follow Jesus’ example of neither speaking nor doing things on our own. We should seek and submit to God’s will and do what He calls and sends us to do.
Reflection: While serving the Lord, am I faithful to the position as a steward? Or do I act on my own and usurp God’s authority?
3> A brave and steadfast proclamation
8 Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, 29 but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” (v28-29)
Jesus was not unaware of the predicament He faced with the Jewish leaders that were plotting to kill Him. He knew that they could not bear to hear His proclamations of being sent by God and of being the Son of God. Thus, the more He talked about it, the more they rejected and hated Him and the more they were determined to kill Him.
Jesus could have chosen to keep a low profile and to be silent when He went for the feast. However, He chose to go against the current and showed up in the synagogue speaking in public. He spoke loud and clear about His position and where He was from. It revealed His steadfast, compelling and courageous determination.
Reflection: When faced with attacks and persecution, am I steadfast and courageous in spirit like Jesus was?
4> Embrace the opportunity to seek Him （v33-34）
33 Jesus said, I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me. 34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.
Jesus took the opportunity to foretell His crucifixion when the crowd was in Jerusalem for the feast. He said that He would rise up again after His death and return to God. Thus, He said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I go to the one who sent me. 34 You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.”
In Isaiah 55:6, Isaiah the prophet said, 6Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on Him while He is near. It is a reminder that we should embrace the opportunity to believe in Jesus and to receive the salvation.
Reflection: Do I embrace the opportunity to believe, to seek, to rely, to follow and to serve Him? Do I think that there is still much time for me and I can always come back and think about later on? Do I waste time and let the opportunity pass me by?
Translated by 曾秀娟
20.10.09
To glorify God or to glorify self ?
Jesus Teaches at the Feast
14 Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach.
15 The Jews were amazed and asked, How did this man get such learning without having studied?
16 Jesus answered, My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me.
17 If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.
18 He who speaks on his own does so to gain honour for himself, but he who works for the honour of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.
19 Has not Moses given you the law? Yet not one of you keeps the law. Why are you trying to kill me?
20 You are demon-possessed, the crowd answered. Who is trying to kill you?
21 Jesus said to them, I did one miracle, and you are all astonished.
22 Yet, because Moses gave you circumcision (though actually it did not come from Moses, but from the patriarchs), you circumcise a child on the Sabbath.
23 Now if a child can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses may not be broken, why are you angry with me for healing the whole man on the Sabbath?
24 Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment.
一、：Content
1>（v14-15）The Jews leaders were amazed by the teaching of Lord Jesus Christ 2>（v16-18）Lord Jesus Christ stressed that His teaching comes from God and that it was not his own.
3>（v19-24）In compliance with the law, Lord Jesus challenged them with whether or not one can heal people on the Sabbath Day?
Subject
1>Teachings filled with authority and power
2>To glorify God or to glorify self?
3>To restore the true meaning of the Law
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit?
1>（v14）Good teaching of Jesus Christ
2>（v15）Jesus Christ who is full of knowledge (knowledge of books)
3>（v16）God who bestowed the lessons
4>（v16）Receive lessons from Jesus Christ
5>（v18）True and no pseudo-real (there is no injustice in good faith) in Jesus Christ
6>（v19）Jesus Christ who was about to be killed
7>（v23）Jesus Christ who heals.
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1. Teaching filled with authority and power
As recorded in the previous paragraph, the Lord Jesus secretly went to Jerusalem for the feast at the time of His choice. Suddenly He showed up in the temple during the festival and He started to teach people with authority and power. Even the Jewish leaders were incredibly surprised.
In Jesus’ time only those who went to school of rabbi and learned from the teachers were qualified to explain the Scriptures and to teach the Law. They based their teaching on what they learned from their teachers or the books of their teachers.
To them Lord Jesus Christ is nothing. Not only that He had never learned from any teachers but also He did not have the basis of any book. Yet He was even filled with authority and power to explain the Scriptures and to teach the Law.
Therefore, they were suspicious of His teaching and asked: "This man never follows any teacher, how could He become such a knowledgeable person?" Jesus then replied: "For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it." John 12:49. Jesus said: "Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. "John 14:10. Jesus said:"All these words came from my mouth were not from me but from Father. "
Clearly Lord Jesus Christ's teaching 100% comes from God. Teaching that comes from God definitely fills with authority and power.
Reflection: As a pastor I often need to teach and preach sermon. I hope that through out my ministry I can set aside personal ideas and base my teaching solely on the Bible and be loyal to the Word of God so that my teaching and preaching can be filled with authority and power.
2>Only follower can distinguish the difference
"If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own." （v17）The meaning of this verse is when a person is indeed determined to follow God's will, only then he can obtain the wisdom to distinguish from God. That is able to distinguish the difference between God’s will and man’s will. In other words: doing God’s will is the most important thing.
Reflection: Am I really following the lessons from Bible and the will of God? Or do I just stay in the stage of knowledge? Do I have enough wisdom to distinguish them?
3>The difference between glorifying God and glorifying self
He who speaks on his own does so to gain honour for himself, but he who works for the honour of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him. （v18）There are two kinds of people who will deliver messages. One who pursues personal glory and the other who pursues the glory of God. The people who pursue personal glory will teach from their own ideas; while the people who pursue the glory of God will teach what is revealed by God and it is faultless.
Reflection: Does my teaching or my preaching glorify God? Or does it glorify me?
4>To restore the true meaning of the Law
Lord Jesus said: On the day of Sabbath I did one thing which is unthinkable to you and you were all curious about it. According to the account in Chapter 5, on a Sabbath day the Lord Jesus healed a patient who had been sick for thirty-eight years, thus it made the Jewish leaders unhappy and they accused Him of violating the Law. Jesus took advantage of this opportunity to initiate the discussion of the Law.
Jesus Christ pointed it out straight forward to them that: Even though Moses did grant the Law to them, they proclaimed that they knew the Law, and also they were very proud of themselves as Law keepers. In fact they did not understand the Law, they even misinterpreted the Law, and no one obeyed the Law. How could it be? Because the Law clearly stated that thou shall not kill, yet they intended to kill Lord Jesus. Also, circumcision is just a religious ritual, while providing medical treatment for the needed is an act of love. Circumcision is to cut something off from the body, on the other hand providing medical treatment is to enable the body to recover. Since performing circumcision on the Sabbath day is acceptable, why then is it unacceptable for one to provide medical treatment to restore people’s health on the Sabbath day?
On Mark 2: 27 Jesus had also said: "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." Clearly the main subject is human not Sabbath. Sabbath is set up for people’s need only!
In particular the original intention of God's law was for the well being of His people. Thus within the context of the Law, His people can be sanctified and prevent themselves from any harm, be set free, enjoy liberty and receive blessings.
However, the Jews of that era, especially their leaders, they has distorted the original intention of the Law. Although they did hold on to the provision of the Law but actually they did lose the spirit of the Law which in this case were love and compassion, they prohibited people from receiving treatment even put a limit on people's freedom. In this way, Law has become restraints and burdens!
Therefore Lord Jesus Christ took the opportunity to clarify and restore the true meaning of the Law
Reflection: In the path of my belief, have I sometimes fallen into the trap of legalism?
Translated by 曾秀娟
14 Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach.
15 The Jews were amazed and asked, How did this man get such learning without having studied?
16 Jesus answered, My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me.
17 If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.
18 He who speaks on his own does so to gain honour for himself, but he who works for the honour of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.
19 Has not Moses given you the law? Yet not one of you keeps the law. Why are you trying to kill me?
20 You are demon-possessed, the crowd answered. Who is trying to kill you?
21 Jesus said to them, I did one miracle, and you are all astonished.
22 Yet, because Moses gave you circumcision (though actually it did not come from Moses, but from the patriarchs), you circumcise a child on the Sabbath.
23 Now if a child can be circumcised on the Sabbath so that the law of Moses may not be broken, why are you angry with me for healing the whole man on the Sabbath?
24 Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment.
一、：Content
1>（v14-15）The Jews leaders were amazed by the teaching of Lord Jesus Christ 2>（v16-18）Lord Jesus Christ stressed that His teaching comes from God and that it was not his own.
3>（v19-24）In compliance with the law, Lord Jesus challenged them with whether or not one can heal people on the Sabbath Day?
Subject
1>Teachings filled with authority and power
2>To glorify God or to glorify self?
3>To restore the true meaning of the Law
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit?
1>（v14）Good teaching of Jesus Christ
2>（v15）Jesus Christ who is full of knowledge (knowledge of books)
3>（v16）God who bestowed the lessons
4>（v16）Receive lessons from Jesus Christ
5>（v18）True and no pseudo-real (there is no injustice in good faith) in Jesus Christ
6>（v19）Jesus Christ who was about to be killed
7>（v23）Jesus Christ who heals.
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1. Teaching filled with authority and power
As recorded in the previous paragraph, the Lord Jesus secretly went to Jerusalem for the feast at the time of His choice. Suddenly He showed up in the temple during the festival and He started to teach people with authority and power. Even the Jewish leaders were incredibly surprised.
In Jesus’ time only those who went to school of rabbi and learned from the teachers were qualified to explain the Scriptures and to teach the Law. They based their teaching on what they learned from their teachers or the books of their teachers.
To them Lord Jesus Christ is nothing. Not only that He had never learned from any teachers but also He did not have the basis of any book. Yet He was even filled with authority and power to explain the Scriptures and to teach the Law.
Therefore, they were suspicious of His teaching and asked: "This man never follows any teacher, how could He become such a knowledgeable person?" Jesus then replied: "For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it." John 12:49. Jesus said: "Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. "John 14:10. Jesus said:"All these words came from my mouth were not from me but from Father. "
Clearly Lord Jesus Christ's teaching 100% comes from God. Teaching that comes from God definitely fills with authority and power.
Reflection: As a pastor I often need to teach and preach sermon. I hope that through out my ministry I can set aside personal ideas and base my teaching solely on the Bible and be loyal to the Word of God so that my teaching and preaching can be filled with authority and power.
2>Only follower can distinguish the difference
"If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own." （v17）The meaning of this verse is when a person is indeed determined to follow God's will, only then he can obtain the wisdom to distinguish from God. That is able to distinguish the difference between God’s will and man’s will. In other words: doing God’s will is the most important thing.
Reflection: Am I really following the lessons from Bible and the will of God? Or do I just stay in the stage of knowledge? Do I have enough wisdom to distinguish them?
3>The difference between glorifying God and glorifying self
He who speaks on his own does so to gain honour for himself, but he who works for the honour of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him. （v18）There are two kinds of people who will deliver messages. One who pursues personal glory and the other who pursues the glory of God. The people who pursue personal glory will teach from their own ideas; while the people who pursue the glory of God will teach what is revealed by God and it is faultless.
Reflection: Does my teaching or my preaching glorify God? Or does it glorify me?
4>To restore the true meaning of the Law
Lord Jesus said: On the day of Sabbath I did one thing which is unthinkable to you and you were all curious about it. According to the account in Chapter 5, on a Sabbath day the Lord Jesus healed a patient who had been sick for thirty-eight years, thus it made the Jewish leaders unhappy and they accused Him of violating the Law. Jesus took advantage of this opportunity to initiate the discussion of the Law.
Jesus Christ pointed it out straight forward to them that: Even though Moses did grant the Law to them, they proclaimed that they knew the Law, and also they were very proud of themselves as Law keepers. In fact they did not understand the Law, they even misinterpreted the Law, and no one obeyed the Law. How could it be? Because the Law clearly stated that thou shall not kill, yet they intended to kill Lord Jesus. Also, circumcision is just a religious ritual, while providing medical treatment for the needed is an act of love. Circumcision is to cut something off from the body, on the other hand providing medical treatment is to enable the body to recover. Since performing circumcision on the Sabbath day is acceptable, why then is it unacceptable for one to provide medical treatment to restore people’s health on the Sabbath day?
On Mark 2: 27 Jesus had also said: "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." Clearly the main subject is human not Sabbath. Sabbath is set up for people’s need only!
In particular the original intention of God's law was for the well being of His people. Thus within the context of the Law, His people can be sanctified and prevent themselves from any harm, be set free, enjoy liberty and receive blessings.
However, the Jews of that era, especially their leaders, they has distorted the original intention of the Law. Although they did hold on to the provision of the Law but actually they did lose the spirit of the Law which in this case were love and compassion, they prohibited people from receiving treatment even put a limit on people's freedom. In this way, Law has become restraints and burdens!
Therefore Lord Jesus Christ took the opportunity to clarify and restore the true meaning of the Law
Reflection: In the path of my belief, have I sometimes fallen into the trap of legalism?
Translated by 曾秀娟
雅各書總結討論問題提示
雅各書總結討論問題提示 Amos
Chap 1 (華語部分用 現中修訂版, 和合本, 漢羅本為輔)
1. 雅1:2 弟兄姊妹們，你們遭遇各種試煉，應該認為是可慶幸的事，..
(和合本 – 試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂) 為何在試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂? Why ?
如何作 ? How to do ?
2. 雅1:6 不過，你們要憑著信心求，不可有絲毫疑惑；
除了憑信心, 如何禱告才會是有功效的禱告 ? (如何禱告不會落入民間信仰的層次)
3. 雅1:12 遭受試煉 (trials )而忍耐到底的人有福了；因為通過考驗 (test) 之後，他將領受上帝向愛他的人所應許那生命的冠冕。 耶穌說 : 「我去原是為你們預備地方」類似試驗(test)、試探(temptation)、試練(trials)和考驗等字詞,在聖經中出現超過二百次。 ... 幸而聖經中也描述了許多通過重大考驗的模範人物,如約瑟、路得、以斯帖和但以理。 ... 他們通過了考驗,就必得著生命的冠冕,這是神應許賜給愛祂的人的。
當主再來時, 你希望或可能得到哪一種 ? (愛的激勵) Why ?
4. 1:19 我親愛的弟兄姊妹們，你們每一個人都應該隨時聆聽別人的意見，不急於發言，更不要輕易動怒。 (和合本 – 聽要快, 說要慢 , 生氣要慢) 巴克萊牧師 提出 四種個性的人 – 你是偏向哪一種 ? 如何改進 ? (聽快忘快, 聽快忘慢, 慢聽快忘, 慢聽慢忘)
Chap. 2
1. 雅2:1 我的弟兄姊妹們，既然你們是我們榮耀的主耶穌基督的信徒，就不可憑著人的外
表，用不同的態度對待人。 我們生活上有哪些對人的偏見 ? 如何改進 ?
(參考拙著 “看見與偏見” (Insights and Preconceptions) 一文 4/28/2007 證道文
另外有 一真實的故事 – 史丹福大學的由來)
2. 雅2:8 你們若遵從聖經上所記載「愛人如己」那新國度的法則，那就對了。
雅2:14 我的弟兄姊妹們，如果有人說他有信心，卻不能用他的行為證明出來，有甚麼
用處呢？那信心能救他嗎？
如何瞭解 信心與行為, 禱告與努力進天國, 行事為人與蒙召的恩相稱 (弗 4: 1) 的關係
來理解因信稱義, 唯獨恩典 等五大唯獨的教導.
Chap 3.
如何做才能控制住我們的舌頭 ?
在個人遭遇 - 失意時, 心懷不平時, 高興或得意時, 大患難時, 嫉妒時, 別人惡言攻擊時,
被惡意批評時, 不受尊重時, 受冤屈時, 別人值得慶祝的事時, 被挾制時, 被過度抬舉時, 被論斷時 ,含冤莫辯甚至背黑鍋時, 有人喜歡亂揭別人隱私時, …
五類不說 (inactive) 的話 -
五種要說 (pro-active)的話 (追求屬天的智慧 (雅3:17)) –
Chap 4.
1. 為何 “神阻擋驕傲的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。 (雅 4:6) ” ?
(箴 3:34 他譏誚那好譏誚的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。RSV - Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he shows favor)
雅 4:10 務要在主面前自卑，主就必叫你們升高。RSV - Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. 在上主 面前謙卑，上主就會 提高 。
2. 雅 4:11 - 你們不可彼此批評。人若批評弟兄，論斷弟兄，就是批評律法 (漢羅) 兄弟 (** )， - 互相講 話。人若講兄弟 話， 是批評兄弟，就是反對律法，批評律法。你若批評律法，就已經 是守律法 人，就是批評律法 人。 RSV - Do not speak evil against one another, brethren.
“用愛心說誠實話” 和 “論斷 (slander) , 批評 (judge) 弟兄” 有何區別 ?
如何作 才能落實 ”用愛心說誠實話” 卻不傷害人 ?
Chap 5
1.雅 5: 1- 6 談到富人的罪有哪些 ? 難道窮人就比較沒罪嗎 ? (例如不認真工作或懶惰導致貧窮) 在 5000 , 2000, 1000 的比喻中 (太 25 : 14 – 28) 談到會理財的好管家是用 “好 “, “良善” “忠心” 及 “來管理”的字眼. 啟示錄3 : 18 更要我們買火煉的金子叫我們富足, 那是甚麼意思 ? (參考 林前 3: 12 -15 )
請描述健康的基督徒金錢與工作的價值觀.
2. 雅 5: 7 -11 , 談 "忍耐” 更要我們忍耐到底, 特別是在大試煉中 (trials 雅 1: 2 ; 12 )並且應許祂必拯救到底. 我們如何理解 “屬靈的忍耐 “ 在不同情境(層次)下的生活應用 ?
參考解答
參考網址http://www.edzx.com/chajing/New%20Testament/59James/59Index.htm
Chap 1 (華語部分用 現中修訂版, 和合本, 漢羅本為輔)
1. 雅1:2 弟兄姊妹們，你們遭遇各種試煉，應該認為是可慶幸的事，..
(和合本 – 試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂) 為何在試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂? Why ?
如何作 ? How to do ?
2. 雅1:6 不過，你們要憑著信心求，不可有絲毫疑惑；
除了憑信心, 如何禱告才會是有功效的禱告 ? (如何禱告不會落入民間信仰的層次)
1) 認罪, 2) 謙卑 3) 迫切, 4) 信心, 5) 合神心意, 6) 靠主名求, 7) 禁食, 8)先求他的國語他的義 (求他的主權在地面的實現) 9) 求屬天智慧 (雅 3:17-18 )
弗6: 18 - 靠著聖靈，隨時 多方禱告祈求；並要在此警醒 不倦，為眾聖徒祈求，
3. 雅1:12 遭受試煉 (trials )而忍耐到底的人有福了；因為通過考驗 (test) 之後，他將領受上帝向愛他的人所應許那生命的冠冕。 耶穌說 : 「我去原是為你們預備地方」類似試驗(test)、試探(temptation)、試練(trials)和考驗等字詞,在聖經中出現超過二百次。 ... 幸而聖經中也描述了許多通過重大考驗的模範人物,如約瑟、路得、以斯帖和但以理。 ... 他們通過了考驗,就必得著生命的冠冕,這是神應許賜給愛祂的人的。
聖經中有以下幾種冠冕 -
1) 啟 2 : 10 你要忠心至死，我就賜給你生命的華冠。 啟 3:11; 4:10 ,
2) 來 2: 7 (詩 8:4) 你叫他比天使微小一點(或作:你叫他暫時比天使小),賜他榮耀尊 貴為冠冕,
3) 摩後4:8 從今以後，有公義的華冠等著我，就是那以公義施行審判的主在基督再來的
日子要賜給我的，不但賜給我，也要賜給所有愛慕他顯現的人。
4) 林後 9:25 每一個運動員接受嚴格的訓練，為要爭取那會朽壞的華冠；但是我們所求的
卻是那不朽的冠冕。
5) 彼前5:3 不要轄制你們所牧養的羊群，卻要作羊群的榜樣。5:4 這樣，那大牧人來臨的
時候，你們就會領受那永不失去光彩的華冠。
當主再來時, 你希望或可能得到哪一種 ? (愛的激勵) Why ?
4. 1:19 我親愛的弟兄姊妹們，你們每一個人都應該隨時聆聽別人的意見，不急於發言，更不要輕易動怒。 (和合本 – 聽要快, 說要慢 , 生氣要慢) 巴克萊牧師 提出 四種個性的人 – 你是偏向哪一種 ? 如何改進 ? (聽快忘快, 聽快忘慢, 慢聽快忘, 慢聽慢忘)
稍微 quote 一下許牧師他的引言
"別人的(閒)話, 不必自己加註解 (或許猜疑, 致自我困擾)"
"生氣是軟弱者的表現" (因為無法理性討論)
"發生氣是用別人的過錯來懲罰自己"
"生(悶)氣是無知的表現" (因為無知, 致誤解別人來生氣)
Chap. 2
1. 雅2:1 我的弟兄姊妹們，既然你們是我們榮耀的主耶穌基督的信徒，就不可憑著人的外
表，用不同的態度對待人。 我們生活上有哪些對人的偏見 ? 如何改進 ?
(參考拙著 “看見與偏見” (Insights and Preconceptions) 一文 4/28/2007 證道文
另外有 一真實的故事 – 史丹福大學的由來)
2. 雅2:8 你們若遵從聖經上所記載「愛人如己」那新國度的法則，那就對了。
雅2:14 我的弟兄姊妹們，如果有人說他有信心，卻不能用他的行為證明出來，有甚麼
用處呢？那信心能救他嗎？
如何瞭解 信心與行為, 禱告與努力進天國, 行事為人與蒙召的恩相稱 (弗 4: 1) 的關係
來理解因信稱義, 唯獨恩典 等五大唯獨的教導.
( Faith 信心only, Grace恩典 only, Script 聖經only, Christ基督 only, Glorify God 榮耀神only , 這五個在聖經中的真理成為改革時期的重要理據，憑藉各種的辨證，指出了教會在信仰及教義上種種錯誤，成功將教會帶回合乎聖經的真道上。)
雅2:8 要守至尊的律法 - 愛人如己 : 三大虧欠之一 (欠福音的債, 虧欠神的榮耀, 愛人)
我信, 但我信不足, 求主幫助 (可 9:24) - 因為是恩典把我們算為義
我想守 (遵行). 但我行不完全, 求主幫助 - 因為律法(前約)是有瑕疵 . (來 8: 7)
Chap 3.
如何做才能控制住我們的舌頭 ?
在個人遭遇 - 失意時, 心懷不平時, 高興或得意時, 大患難時, 嫉妒時, 別人惡言攻擊時, 被惡意批評時, 不受尊重時, 受冤屈時, 別人值得慶祝的事時, 被挾制時, 被過度抬舉時, 被論斷時 含冤莫辯甚至背黑鍋時, 有人喜歡亂揭別人隱私時, …
五種要說 (pro-active)的話 – 有營養的話
(追求屬天的智慧 (雅3:17))
五類不說 (inactive) 的話
1 箴 15:1- 4 溫和的話 – 平息怒氣,
Is it kind ? 充滿生機 (是生命樹)
粗暴的話 – 激起怒氣 (provoke)
教育者的風範 - 弗 6: 4
2 箴 25:11 合宜的話 – 金蘋果放銀藍子
Is it necessary ?
溝通協調的話
誇口 (箴 27: 1 - 2; 雅 4: 13 - 17 ) –
有自卑才會自誇, 有自信才能自謙
鬼話 (過度諂媚人的話), 廢話
3 弗 4: 15-16 用愛心說誠實話,
凡是長進, 連於元首基督
Is it true ?
謊話 (含 中傷, 論斷, 批評, 閒話)
弗 4:25 有道德勇氣,
說也許會得罪人的話 (當面)
4 弗 4: 19 造就人的話
讚美的話, 感恩的話, 互相尊重的話,
會醫治人的話 (太 8: 5- 13 )
使人和睦的話 -
比較頭腦糟蹋對方, 比較個性(恩賜)造就對方
減輕壓力的話 (創 50:22)
咒詛的話 (苦毒與嫉妒 - 雅 3: 14 - 16)
污穢的話 (髒話, 黃色笑話)
多人的場合講 - 造就性, 知識性, 技術性,
與 建設性的話
5 雅 1: 6-8 迫切, 有信心, 合神心意的禱告
If you can pray together, you can stay together
(見第一章問題二 - 九種有功效的禱告)
自我中心與成功神學的禱告
咒詛人的禱告
結論 – 箴 4:23 保守我們的心 ; 太 15: 10-20, 雅 3: 1- 12勒住舌頭; 箴 12 : 6, 13
用讚美代咒詛, 用感恩代嫉妒, 用欣賞代批評, 自信不自誇, 自謙不自卑
參考資料
追求健康 (= 成熟) 的人格 -
急事，慢慢的說； 大事，清楚的說； 小事，幽默的說；
傷害人的事，不能說； 開心的事，看埸合說； 別人的事，小心的說；
自己的事，聽聽自己的心怎麼說；
現在的事，做了再說； 未來的事，未來再說；
如果對我有不滿意的地方，請一定要對我說。
Chap 4.
1. 為何 “神阻擋驕傲的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。 (雅 4:6) ” ?
(箴 3:34 他譏誚那好譏誚的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。RSV - Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he shows favor)
雅 4:10 務要在主面前自卑，主就必叫你們升高。RSV - Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. 在上主 面前謙卑，上主就會 提高 。
2. 雅 4:11 - 你們不可彼此批評。人若批評弟兄，論斷弟兄，就是批評律法 (漢羅) 兄弟 (** )， - 互相講 話。人若講兄弟 話， 是批評兄弟，就是反對律法，批評律法。你若批評律法，就已經 是守律法 人，就是批評律法 人。 RSV - Do not speak evil against one another, brethren.
“用愛心說誠實話” 和 “論斷 (slander) , 批評 (judge) 弟兄” 有何區別 ?
如何作 才能落實 ”用愛心說誠實話” 卻不傷害人 ?
Chap 5
1.雅 5: 1- 6 談到富人的罪有哪些 ? 難道窮人就比較沒罪嗎 ? (例如不認真工作或懶惰導致貧窮) 在 5000 , 2000, 1000 的比喻中 (太 25 : 14 – 28) 談到會理財的好管家是用 “好 “, “良善” “忠心” 及 “來管理”的字眼. 啟示錄3 : 18 更要我們買火煉的金子叫我們富足, 那是甚麼意思 ? (參考 林前 3: 12 -15 )
請描述健康的基督徒金錢與工作的價值觀.
窮富是關係到社會公義的議題, 金錢與壓力(適當的壓力是進步的動力) 皆是中性的名詞,
聖經責罵的是為富不仁, 或 該作的善不去作, 並且不把人當人看 (如乞丐拉撒路 – 路16: 19-21),
通過工作, 正當的賺錢 (入) 與會用錢 (出, 理財而不當有錢的窮人) 的平衡是關係到社會公義的面對.
2. 雅 5: 7 -11 , 談 "忍耐” 更要我們忍耐到底, 特別是在大試煉中 (trials 雅 1: 2 ; 12 )並且應許祂必拯救到底. 我們如何理解 “屬靈的忍耐 “ 在不同情境(層次)下的生活應用 ?
雅各所論的忍耐包括包含四種不同的性質︰(引述陳終道牧師查經資料, 見網址)
１．盼望的忍耐（5:7下）
7下 農夫怎樣存著盼望撒種，忍耐地等候地裏寶貴的出產；我們也當照樣忍耐等候主來。農夫並非等著看有雨才撒種（參傳11:4），而是按時撒種；然後等候時雨。撒種是人的本分，降雨是神的作為；如同應先盡應盡之本分，然後盼望神顯作為一般；我們也當先忍耐，然後才有可能盼望看見神的作為。「春雨秋雨」，原文作「早雨晚雨」；但這「早」與「晚」不是早上與晚上的意思，而是指一年之中，較早與較遲的早晚的意思。
２．信心的忍耐（5:8）
8 長時間的忍耐必須靠著有信心才能堅固，特別是要相信︰「主來的日子近了」。「你們也當忍耐，堅固你們的心」，這句話表明本節與上節是相連的；我們不但要像農夫那樣存盼望的心撒種而忍耐，也要像農夫那樣存信心撒種而忍耐。農夫因著撒種，心裏便得了堅固；照樣，我們今天的忍耐，就像農夫撒下的種一樣，必能在將來有收成。
３．愛心的忍耐（5:9）
9 「彼此埋怨」，是在肢體生活中沒有忍耐的記號，也是缺乏愛心的表現。埋人的，就是要求別人對自己有愛心，卻忘記了自己應該對別人有愛心；所以我們也要有愛心的忍耐，才能使我們與弟兄有和睦的生活。
「免得受審判」，可見彼此埋怨是要受神審判的罪。特別在教會受試煉時的彼此埋怨，更是只能增加彼此的痛苦，削減教會屬靈的能力罷了。一個隨便便把招致受苦或損失的責任歸罪於別人，而不敬畏神的人，總是難逃公義之神的審判的。
「看哪，審判的主站在門前了」， 那要再來的是一位審判的主，不是拯救的主。這句話有兩方面的意思，一方面是指，主是審判信徒的主，祂既已站在門前，我們就不可彼此埋怨，而應存忍耐敬畏的 心，度餘下的光陰，準備著一切的生活行事，在那日向主交帳；另一方面，是指主是審判萬人的主，祂既已快來施行賞罰與報應（啟22:12），那麼，我們縱然暫受試煉，也該忍耐，因為再過一點時候，那要來的就來了。
４．效法古聖的忍耐（5:10-11）
10 眾 先知既然是跟我們有一樣性情的人，他們既為主受苦，而且忍耐成功，我們就該以他們作為受苦忍耐的榜樣；更可注意的是，眾先知的忍耐受苦，是因奉主名說話， 行神所喜悅的，而不是只為一些個人的得失問題而忍耐，這正是我們所要效法的、有屬靈價值的忍耐。如果到今天，，我們也還只是在那裏為著個人的得失問題受 苦，而不能忍耐，就更加無可置怨了。
另一方面眾先知尚且為主名受苦，我們這末世的基督徒豈能例外？基督在世為人尚且受苦，何況我們作祂僕人的呢？「人既罵家主是別西卜，何況他的家人呢」（太10:25）？這樣，我們不但不要因受苦發怨言，反倒要因眾先知的榜樣而得安慰與鼓勵；因我們若與眾先知為同樣的原因而受苦，就顯明我們與他們在受苦方面是同列的，所以也就更應當忍耐了。
11 既 然先前能忍耐的人，被我們後世的人稱為有福，可見為主忍受苦難能使人受激勵而羡慕，且不但為當時的人所羡慕，更是後世歷代的人所羡慕的。同時，這些也都不 過是從人的方面來說；在神方面，我們所得的福氣又豈止這些呢？世上有許多盛大的典禮或喜事，總是需要很長的時間和多方面的籌備，然後才得到一個短暫的快樂 或榮耀；但信徒為主忍耐，預備見主，卻是只需短時間的準備中就能得著永遠的福樂與榮耀的；這樣，我們豈不更應當忍耐。
這 裏特別指出約伯的忍耐，和主所給他的結局作為勉勵。約伯所遭受的苦難，從他自己方面看來，這是毫無理由的，而且來得十分突然又嚴重；但他的忍耐，卻在魔鬼 面前為神作了美好的見證，證明地上確有人並不是因著神的賜福才愛祂，神也不是憑著給人物質的好處，才能得人的敬愛，而是因為祂本身就是大有慈悲、全然可愛 的；因此約伯得著加倍的祝福。照樣，我們若多忍耐一次的苦難，就必多得加倍的祝福；因為神既對約伯顯明，祂是「滿心憐憫、大有慈悲」的主，自然也必向我們顯明祂的慈悲與憐憫。
注意︰從7-11節中每節都提到「主」字，表明我們一切忍耐都要以主為中心。
分享 :
(低頭的能力 – 會低頭與董得低頭 ex. 蘇格拉底: 3 ft between sky and earth – to bow down )
自認懷才不遇的人，往往看不到別人的優秀；
憤世嫉俗的人，往往看不到世界的美好；
只有敢於低頭並不斷否定自己的人，才能夠不斷吸取教訓，才會為別人的成功而欣喜，為自己的善解人意而自得，才會在挫折面前心安理得。
擁有和失去是人生常有的事，人應該學會習慣於失去，並善於從失去中有所得。
受挫一次，對生活的理解便加深一層.
舉得起，放得下，叫舉重，舉不起，放不下，叫負擔。
做你愛做的事，並不意味著生活過得輕鬆，但絕對可以活得更精彩。
人類的智慧不是埋藏在前人的經驗裡，而是潛伏在自己的心靈中。
悲觀的人在山腳看世界，看到幽冥小徑；悲觀的人說：人生像一杯苦酒，清濁均苦澀。
樂觀的人在山腰看世界，看到柳暗花明；樂觀的人說：人生像一杯美酒，點滴皆芬芳。
達觀的人在山頂看世界，看到天廣地清。達觀的人說：人生像一杯清泉，冷暖都清涼。
悲觀的人看到花謝的悲傷；悲觀的人見到人生的生老病死；
樂觀的人看到花開的燦爛；樂觀的人見到人生的甘甜喜樂；
達觀的人看到花果的希望。達觀的人見到人生的春夏秋冬。
Chap 1 (華語部分用 現中修訂版, 和合本, 漢羅本為輔)
1. 雅1:2 弟兄姊妹們，你們遭遇各種試煉，應該認為是可慶幸的事，..
(和合本 – 試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂) 為何在試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂? Why ?
如何作 ? How to do ?
2. 雅1:6 不過，你們要憑著信心求，不可有絲毫疑惑；
除了憑信心, 如何禱告才會是有功效的禱告 ? (如何禱告不會落入民間信仰的層次)
3. 雅1:12 遭受試煉 (trials )而忍耐到底的人有福了；因為通過考驗 (test) 之後，他將領受上帝向愛他的人所應許那生命的冠冕。 耶穌說 : 「我去原是為你們預備地方」類似試驗(test)、試探(temptation)、試練(trials)和考驗等字詞,在聖經中出現超過二百次。 ... 幸而聖經中也描述了許多通過重大考驗的模範人物,如約瑟、路得、以斯帖和但以理。 ... 他們通過了考驗,就必得著生命的冠冕,這是神應許賜給愛祂的人的。
當主再來時, 你希望或可能得到哪一種 ? (愛的激勵) Why ?
4. 1:19 我親愛的弟兄姊妹們，你們每一個人都應該隨時聆聽別人的意見，不急於發言，更不要輕易動怒。 (和合本 – 聽要快, 說要慢 , 生氣要慢) 巴克萊牧師 提出 四種個性的人 – 你是偏向哪一種 ? 如何改進 ? (聽快忘快, 聽快忘慢, 慢聽快忘, 慢聽慢忘)
Chap. 2
1. 雅2:1 我的弟兄姊妹們，既然你們是我們榮耀的主耶穌基督的信徒，就不可憑著人的外
表，用不同的態度對待人。 我們生活上有哪些對人的偏見 ? 如何改進 ?
(參考拙著 “看見與偏見” (Insights and Preconceptions) 一文 4/28/2007 證道文
另外有 一真實的故事 – 史丹福大學的由來)
2. 雅2:8 你們若遵從聖經上所記載「愛人如己」那新國度的法則，那就對了。
雅2:14 我的弟兄姊妹們，如果有人說他有信心，卻不能用他的行為證明出來，有甚麼
用處呢？那信心能救他嗎？
如何瞭解 信心與行為, 禱告與努力進天國, 行事為人與蒙召的恩相稱 (弗 4: 1) 的關係
來理解因信稱義, 唯獨恩典 等五大唯獨的教導.
Chap 3.
如何做才能控制住我們的舌頭 ?
在個人遭遇 - 失意時, 心懷不平時, 高興或得意時, 大患難時, 嫉妒時, 別人惡言攻擊時,
被惡意批評時, 不受尊重時, 受冤屈時, 別人值得慶祝的事時, 被挾制時, 被過度抬舉時, 被論斷時 ,含冤莫辯甚至背黑鍋時, 有人喜歡亂揭別人隱私時, …
五類不說 (inactive) 的話 -
五種要說 (pro-active)的話 (追求屬天的智慧 (雅3:17)) –
Chap 4.
1. 為何 “神阻擋驕傲的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。 (雅 4:6) ” ?
(箴 3:34 他譏誚那好譏誚的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。RSV - Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he shows favor)
雅 4:10 務要在主面前自卑，主就必叫你們升高。RSV - Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. 在上主 面前謙卑，上主就會 提高 。
2. 雅 4:11 - 你們不可彼此批評。人若批評弟兄，論斷弟兄，就是批評律法 (漢羅) 兄弟 (** )， - 互相講 話。人若講兄弟 話， 是批評兄弟，就是反對律法，批評律法。你若批評律法，就已經 是守律法 人，就是批評律法 人。 RSV - Do not speak evil against one another, brethren.
“用愛心說誠實話” 和 “論斷 (slander) , 批評 (judge) 弟兄” 有何區別 ?
如何作 才能落實 ”用愛心說誠實話” 卻不傷害人 ?
Chap 5
1.雅 5: 1- 6 談到富人的罪有哪些 ? 難道窮人就比較沒罪嗎 ? (例如不認真工作或懶惰導致貧窮) 在 5000 , 2000, 1000 的比喻中 (太 25 : 14 – 28) 談到會理財的好管家是用 “好 “, “良善” “忠心” 及 “來管理”的字眼. 啟示錄3 : 18 更要我們買火煉的金子叫我們富足, 那是甚麼意思 ? (參考 林前 3: 12 -15 )
請描述健康的基督徒金錢與工作的價值觀.
2. 雅 5: 7 -11 , 談 "忍耐” 更要我們忍耐到底, 特別是在大試煉中 (trials 雅 1: 2 ; 12 )並且應許祂必拯救到底. 我們如何理解 “屬靈的忍耐 “ 在不同情境(層次)下的生活應用 ?
參考解答
參考網址http://www.edzx.com/chajing/New%20Testament/59James/59Index.htm
Chap 1 (華語部分用 現中修訂版, 和合本, 漢羅本為輔)
1. 雅1:2 弟兄姊妹們，你們遭遇各種試煉，應該認為是可慶幸的事，..
(和合本 – 試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂) 為何在試煉 (trials) 中當大喜樂? Why ?
如何作 ? How to do ?
2. 雅1:6 不過，你們要憑著信心求，不可有絲毫疑惑；
除了憑信心, 如何禱告才會是有功效的禱告 ? (如何禱告不會落入民間信仰的層次)
1) 認罪, 2) 謙卑 3) 迫切, 4) 信心, 5) 合神心意, 6) 靠主名求, 7) 禁食, 8)先求他的國語他的義 (求他的主權在地面的實現) 9) 求屬天智慧 (雅 3:17-18 )
弗6: 18 - 靠著聖靈，隨時 多方禱告祈求；並要在此警醒 不倦，為眾聖徒祈求，
3. 雅1:12 遭受試煉 (trials )而忍耐到底的人有福了；因為通過考驗 (test) 之後，他將領受上帝向愛他的人所應許那生命的冠冕。 耶穌說 : 「我去原是為你們預備地方」類似試驗(test)、試探(temptation)、試練(trials)和考驗等字詞,在聖經中出現超過二百次。 ... 幸而聖經中也描述了許多通過重大考驗的模範人物,如約瑟、路得、以斯帖和但以理。 ... 他們通過了考驗,就必得著生命的冠冕,這是神應許賜給愛祂的人的。
聖經中有以下幾種冠冕 -
1) 啟 2 : 10 你要忠心至死，我就賜給你生命的華冠。 啟 3:11; 4:10 ,
2) 來 2: 7 (詩 8:4) 你叫他比天使微小一點(或作:你叫他暫時比天使小),賜他榮耀尊 貴為冠冕,
3) 摩後4:8 從今以後，有公義的華冠等著我，就是那以公義施行審判的主在基督再來的
日子要賜給我的，不但賜給我，也要賜給所有愛慕他顯現的人。
4) 林後 9:25 每一個運動員接受嚴格的訓練，為要爭取那會朽壞的華冠；但是我們所求的
卻是那不朽的冠冕。
5) 彼前5:3 不要轄制你們所牧養的羊群，卻要作羊群的榜樣。5:4 這樣，那大牧人來臨的
時候，你們就會領受那永不失去光彩的華冠。
當主再來時, 你希望或可能得到哪一種 ? (愛的激勵) Why ?
4. 1:19 我親愛的弟兄姊妹們，你們每一個人都應該隨時聆聽別人的意見，不急於發言，更不要輕易動怒。 (和合本 – 聽要快, 說要慢 , 生氣要慢) 巴克萊牧師 提出 四種個性的人 – 你是偏向哪一種 ? 如何改進 ? (聽快忘快, 聽快忘慢, 慢聽快忘, 慢聽慢忘)
稍微 quote 一下許牧師他的引言
"別人的(閒)話, 不必自己加註解 (或許猜疑, 致自我困擾)"
"生氣是軟弱者的表現" (因為無法理性討論)
"發生氣是用別人的過錯來懲罰自己"
"生(悶)氣是無知的表現" (因為無知, 致誤解別人來生氣)
Chap. 2
1. 雅2:1 我的弟兄姊妹們，既然你們是我們榮耀的主耶穌基督的信徒，就不可憑著人的外
表，用不同的態度對待人。 我們生活上有哪些對人的偏見 ? 如何改進 ?
(參考拙著 “看見與偏見” (Insights and Preconceptions) 一文 4/28/2007 證道文
另外有 一真實的故事 – 史丹福大學的由來)
2. 雅2:8 你們若遵從聖經上所記載「愛人如己」那新國度的法則，那就對了。
雅2:14 我的弟兄姊妹們，如果有人說他有信心，卻不能用他的行為證明出來，有甚麼
用處呢？那信心能救他嗎？
如何瞭解 信心與行為, 禱告與努力進天國, 行事為人與蒙召的恩相稱 (弗 4: 1) 的關係
來理解因信稱義, 唯獨恩典 等五大唯獨的教導.
( Faith 信心only, Grace恩典 only, Script 聖經only, Christ基督 only, Glorify God 榮耀神only , 這五個在聖經中的真理成為改革時期的重要理據，憑藉各種的辨證，指出了教會在信仰及教義上種種錯誤，成功將教會帶回合乎聖經的真道上。)
雅2:8 要守至尊的律法 - 愛人如己 : 三大虧欠之一 (欠福音的債, 虧欠神的榮耀, 愛人)
我信, 但我信不足, 求主幫助 (可 9:24) - 因為是恩典把我們算為義
我想守 (遵行). 但我行不完全, 求主幫助 - 因為律法(前約)是有瑕疵 . (來 8: 7)
Chap 3.
如何做才能控制住我們的舌頭 ?
在個人遭遇 - 失意時, 心懷不平時, 高興或得意時, 大患難時, 嫉妒時, 別人惡言攻擊時, 被惡意批評時, 不受尊重時, 受冤屈時, 別人值得慶祝的事時, 被挾制時, 被過度抬舉時, 被論斷時 含冤莫辯甚至背黑鍋時, 有人喜歡亂揭別人隱私時, …
五種要說 (pro-active)的話 – 有營養的話
(追求屬天的智慧 (雅3:17))
五類不說 (inactive) 的話
1 箴 15:1- 4 溫和的話 – 平息怒氣,
Is it kind ? 充滿生機 (是生命樹)
粗暴的話 – 激起怒氣 (provoke)
教育者的風範 - 弗 6: 4
2 箴 25:11 合宜的話 – 金蘋果放銀藍子
Is it necessary ?
溝通協調的話
誇口 (箴 27: 1 - 2; 雅 4: 13 - 17 ) –
有自卑才會自誇, 有自信才能自謙
鬼話 (過度諂媚人的話), 廢話
3 弗 4: 15-16 用愛心說誠實話,
凡是長進, 連於元首基督
Is it true ?
謊話 (含 中傷, 論斷, 批評, 閒話)
弗 4:25 有道德勇氣,
說也許會得罪人的話 (當面)
4 弗 4: 19 造就人的話
讚美的話, 感恩的話, 互相尊重的話,
會醫治人的話 (太 8: 5- 13 )
使人和睦的話 -
比較頭腦糟蹋對方, 比較個性(恩賜)造就對方
減輕壓力的話 (創 50:22)
咒詛的話 (苦毒與嫉妒 - 雅 3: 14 - 16)
污穢的話 (髒話, 黃色笑話)
多人的場合講 - 造就性, 知識性, 技術性,
與 建設性的話
5 雅 1: 6-8 迫切, 有信心, 合神心意的禱告
If you can pray together, you can stay together
(見第一章問題二 - 九種有功效的禱告)
自我中心與成功神學的禱告
咒詛人的禱告
結論 – 箴 4:23 保守我們的心 ; 太 15: 10-20, 雅 3: 1- 12勒住舌頭; 箴 12 : 6, 13
用讚美代咒詛, 用感恩代嫉妒, 用欣賞代批評, 自信不自誇, 自謙不自卑
參考資料
追求健康 (= 成熟) 的人格 -
急事，慢慢的說； 大事，清楚的說； 小事，幽默的說；
傷害人的事，不能說； 開心的事，看埸合說； 別人的事，小心的說；
自己的事，聽聽自己的心怎麼說；
現在的事，做了再說； 未來的事，未來再說；
如果對我有不滿意的地方，請一定要對我說。
Chap 4.
1. 為何 “神阻擋驕傲的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。 (雅 4:6) ” ?
(箴 3:34 他譏誚那好譏誚的人，賜恩給謙卑的人。RSV - Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he shows favor)
雅 4:10 務要在主面前自卑，主就必叫你們升高。RSV - Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you. 在上主 面前謙卑，上主就會 提高 。
2. 雅 4:11 - 你們不可彼此批評。人若批評弟兄，論斷弟兄，就是批評律法 (漢羅) 兄弟 (** )， - 互相講 話。人若講兄弟 話， 是批評兄弟，就是反對律法，批評律法。你若批評律法，就已經 是守律法 人，就是批評律法 人。 RSV - Do not speak evil against one another, brethren.
“用愛心說誠實話” 和 “論斷 (slander) , 批評 (judge) 弟兄” 有何區別 ?
如何作 才能落實 ”用愛心說誠實話” 卻不傷害人 ?
Chap 5
1.雅 5: 1- 6 談到富人的罪有哪些 ? 難道窮人就比較沒罪嗎 ? (例如不認真工作或懶惰導致貧窮) 在 5000 , 2000, 1000 的比喻中 (太 25 : 14 – 28) 談到會理財的好管家是用 “好 “, “良善” “忠心” 及 “來管理”的字眼. 啟示錄3 : 18 更要我們買火煉的金子叫我們富足, 那是甚麼意思 ? (參考 林前 3: 12 -15 )
請描述健康的基督徒金錢與工作的價值觀.
窮富是關係到社會公義的議題, 金錢與壓力(適當的壓力是進步的動力) 皆是中性的名詞,
聖經責罵的是為富不仁, 或 該作的善不去作, 並且不把人當人看 (如乞丐拉撒路 – 路16: 19-21),
通過工作, 正當的賺錢 (入) 與會用錢 (出, 理財而不當有錢的窮人) 的平衡是關係到社會公義的面對.
2. 雅 5: 7 -11 , 談 "忍耐” 更要我們忍耐到底, 特別是在大試煉中 (trials 雅 1: 2 ; 12 )並且應許祂必拯救到底. 我們如何理解 “屬靈的忍耐 “ 在不同情境(層次)下的生活應用 ?
雅各所論的忍耐包括包含四種不同的性質︰(引述陳終道牧師查經資料, 見網址)
１．盼望的忍耐（5:7下）
7下 農夫怎樣存著盼望撒種，忍耐地等候地裏寶貴的出產；我們也當照樣忍耐等候主來。農夫並非等著看有雨才撒種（參傳11:4），而是按時撒種；然後等候時雨。撒種是人的本分，降雨是神的作為；如同應先盡應盡之本分，然後盼望神顯作為一般；我們也當先忍耐，然後才有可能盼望看見神的作為。「春雨秋雨」，原文作「早雨晚雨」；但這「早」與「晚」不是早上與晚上的意思，而是指一年之中，較早與較遲的早晚的意思。
２．信心的忍耐（5:8）
8 長時間的忍耐必須靠著有信心才能堅固，特別是要相信︰「主來的日子近了」。「你們也當忍耐，堅固你們的心」，這句話表明本節與上節是相連的；我們不但要像農夫那樣存盼望的心撒種而忍耐，也要像農夫那樣存信心撒種而忍耐。農夫因著撒種，心裏便得了堅固；照樣，我們今天的忍耐，就像農夫撒下的種一樣，必能在將來有收成。
３．愛心的忍耐（5:9）
9 「彼此埋怨」，是在肢體生活中沒有忍耐的記號，也是缺乏愛心的表現。埋人的，就是要求別人對自己有愛心，卻忘記了自己應該對別人有愛心；所以我們也要有愛心的忍耐，才能使我們與弟兄有和睦的生活。
「免得受審判」，可見彼此埋怨是要受神審判的罪。特別在教會受試煉時的彼此埋怨，更是只能增加彼此的痛苦，削減教會屬靈的能力罷了。一個隨便便把招致受苦或損失的責任歸罪於別人，而不敬畏神的人，總是難逃公義之神的審判的。
「看哪，審判的主站在門前了」， 那要再來的是一位審判的主，不是拯救的主。這句話有兩方面的意思，一方面是指，主是審判信徒的主，祂既已站在門前，我們就不可彼此埋怨，而應存忍耐敬畏的 心，度餘下的光陰，準備著一切的生活行事，在那日向主交帳；另一方面，是指主是審判萬人的主，祂既已快來施行賞罰與報應（啟22:12），那麼，我們縱然暫受試煉，也該忍耐，因為再過一點時候，那要來的就來了。
４．效法古聖的忍耐（5:10-11）
10 眾 先知既然是跟我們有一樣性情的人，他們既為主受苦，而且忍耐成功，我們就該以他們作為受苦忍耐的榜樣；更可注意的是，眾先知的忍耐受苦，是因奉主名說話， 行神所喜悅的，而不是只為一些個人的得失問題而忍耐，這正是我們所要效法的、有屬靈價值的忍耐。如果到今天，，我們也還只是在那裏為著個人的得失問題受 苦，而不能忍耐，就更加無可置怨了。
另一方面眾先知尚且為主名受苦，我們這末世的基督徒豈能例外？基督在世為人尚且受苦，何況我們作祂僕人的呢？「人既罵家主是別西卜，何況他的家人呢」（太10:25）？這樣，我們不但不要因受苦發怨言，反倒要因眾先知的榜樣而得安慰與鼓勵；因我們若與眾先知為同樣的原因而受苦，就顯明我們與他們在受苦方面是同列的，所以也就更應當忍耐了。
11 既 然先前能忍耐的人，被我們後世的人稱為有福，可見為主忍受苦難能使人受激勵而羡慕，且不但為當時的人所羡慕，更是後世歷代的人所羡慕的。同時，這些也都不 過是從人的方面來說；在神方面，我們所得的福氣又豈止這些呢？世上有許多盛大的典禮或喜事，總是需要很長的時間和多方面的籌備，然後才得到一個短暫的快樂 或榮耀；但信徒為主忍耐，預備見主，卻是只需短時間的準備中就能得著永遠的福樂與榮耀的；這樣，我們豈不更應當忍耐。
這 裏特別指出約伯的忍耐，和主所給他的結局作為勉勵。約伯所遭受的苦難，從他自己方面看來，這是毫無理由的，而且來得十分突然又嚴重；但他的忍耐，卻在魔鬼 面前為神作了美好的見證，證明地上確有人並不是因著神的賜福才愛祂，神也不是憑著給人物質的好處，才能得人的敬愛，而是因為祂本身就是大有慈悲、全然可愛 的；因此約伯得著加倍的祝福。照樣，我們若多忍耐一次的苦難，就必多得加倍的祝福；因為神既對約伯顯明，祂是「滿心憐憫、大有慈悲」的主，自然也必向我們顯明祂的慈悲與憐憫。
注意︰從7-11節中每節都提到「主」字，表明我們一切忍耐都要以主為中心。
分享 :
(低頭的能力 – 會低頭與董得低頭 ex. 蘇格拉底: 3 ft between sky and earth – to bow down )
自認懷才不遇的人，往往看不到別人的優秀；
憤世嫉俗的人，往往看不到世界的美好；
只有敢於低頭並不斷否定自己的人，才能夠不斷吸取教訓，才會為別人的成功而欣喜，為自己的善解人意而自得，才會在挫折面前心安理得。
擁有和失去是人生常有的事，人應該學會習慣於失去，並善於從失去中有所得。
受挫一次，對生活的理解便加深一層.
舉得起，放得下，叫舉重，舉不起，放不下，叫負擔。
做你愛做的事，並不意味著生活過得輕鬆，但絕對可以活得更精彩。
人類的智慧不是埋藏在前人的經驗裡，而是潛伏在自己的心靈中。
悲觀的人在山腳看世界，看到幽冥小徑；悲觀的人說：人生像一杯苦酒，清濁均苦澀。
樂觀的人在山腰看世界，看到柳暗花明；樂觀的人說：人生像一杯美酒，點滴皆芬芳。
達觀的人在山頂看世界，看到天廣地清。達觀的人說：人生像一杯清泉，冷暖都清涼。
悲觀的人看到花謝的悲傷；悲觀的人見到人生的生老病死；
樂觀的人看到花開的燦爛；樂觀的人見到人生的甘甜喜樂；
達觀的人看到花果的希望。達觀的人見到人生的春夏秋冬。
19.10.09
Jesus was persecuted for the sake of righteousness
John 7:1-13
Jesus Goes to the Feast of Tabernacles
1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. 2But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, 3Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world." 5For even his own brothers did not believe in him.
6Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. 7The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil. 8You go to the Feast. I am not yet[a] going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come." 9Having said this, he stayed in Galilee.
10However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret. 11Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, "Where is that man?"
12Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, "He is a good man." Others replied, "No, he deceives the people." 13But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the Jews.
I. Message:
Content:
1>（v1） Jesus knew that the Jews wanted to take His life, so He did not to go to Judea. He went around in Galilee.
2>（v2-5）Being worldly, Jesus’ brothers sarcastically urged him to go public in order to show off his power.
3>（v6-9）Jesus insisted that His time has not yet come. Therefore, for the time being, He would not go to Judea.
4>（v10）Later on, Jesus went secretly to the feast. 5>（v11-13）The crowd looked for Jesus and whispered about Him in private.
Themes:
1>The right time had not yet come.
2>Jesus was persecuted for the sake of righteousness.
3>Jesus was alone.
II. Who is God? Who is Jesus Christ? Who is Holy Spirit?
1>（v1）Jesus Christ was soon to be crucified.
2>（v3-4）Jesus was mocked by his own brothers.
3>（v5）Jesus’ brothers did not believe him.
4>（v7）Jesus was hated by the world.
5>（v7）Jesus abhors sin.
6>（v7）Jesus spoke for righteousness.
7>（v5、v8）Jesus submitted to God’s timing.
8>（v12）Jesus provoked dispute.
III. What is God teaching me (command, promise, model, rebuke, warning)?
1.Jesus was alone.
Jesus did not steal, rob, deceive nor did he cheat. He went about healing people, driving out demons and preaching the gospel. He cared for people and showed sympathy to them. Technically, He was supposed to be respected by people; but instead, He faced Jewish leaders who wanted to take his life, He was mocked by His own brothers; people hated Him and talked about Him in secret.
a.The Jewish leaders planned to kill him: 1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. (v1)
b. Mocked by His own brothers: 3 Jesus' brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
c. Hated by the world: 7“The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil.” (v7) d. The crowd whispered about Him in secret: 11 Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, “Where is that man?” 12 Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, “He is a good man.” Others replied, “No, he deceives the people.” (v11-12)
The circumstances above indicated that some intended to kill Him because their positions were threatened and some mocked Him out of disbelief; some hated Him because He pointed out their evil doings. Some held prejudice against Him out of the influence of others and said that he was a deceiver. Thus, we could imagine that Jesus must have been very lonely.
The situation that Jesus was facing indicates that the Light has come to the world (the darkness) and the world (the darkness) does not accept Him.
Reflection: In a society which is full of darkness that perverts rights-and –wrongs and misplaces its values, where do I stand? Do I follow the bad examples of others, get used to it and not care about it? Or do I let the light of Jesus’ righteousness shine through me? Am I persecuted for the sake of righteousness like Jesus was? Do I have a profound sense of loneliness like Jesus did?
2. Not for personal fame
3 Jesus' brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
It was merely human for Jesus’ brothers to say such words. It does not surprise us, because it is human nature. Most people constantly look for opportunities to become famous and to promote themselves. They are absorbed in the pursuit of fame and social status. However, Jesus did not fall into the temptation of fame. He faithfully did what God entrusted Him to do and completed His mission. This is the attitude that whoever serves God should have.
Reflection: Do I eagerly pursue fame and status while serving in the church? Or do I follow Jesus’ example to diligently and faithfully serve God in the position He puts me and not to pursue fame?
3. Submit to God’s plan
Out of disbelief, Jesus' brothers sarcastically said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
6 Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right.” 8 You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come. (v6,8)
We notice that in their conversation Jesus mentioned twice that the right time had not yet come. He emphasized that it was not His time yet. In fact, the timing that Jesus referred to was God’s timing and it was according to God’s plan.
Since that Jesus was sent by God, His life had already been planned out by God and His time was set by God. Evidently, Jesus was submissive to God in His every move and time.
Reflection: God has perfect plans for everyone’s life, do I seek for it? Do I have a clear understanding of it? Am I submissive to it?
IV. Prayer/ Life Application
Translated by 曾秀娟
Jesus Goes to the Feast of Tabernacles
1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. 2But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, 3Jesus' brothers said to him, "You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. 4No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world." 5For even his own brothers did not believe in him.
6Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right. 7The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil. 8You go to the Feast. I am not yet[a] going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come." 9Having said this, he stayed in Galilee.
10However, after his brothers had left for the Feast, he went also, not publicly, but in secret. 11Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, "Where is that man?"
12Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, "He is a good man." Others replied, "No, he deceives the people." 13But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the Jews.
I. Message:
Content:
1>（v1） Jesus knew that the Jews wanted to take His life, so He did not to go to Judea. He went around in Galilee.
2>（v2-5）Being worldly, Jesus’ brothers sarcastically urged him to go public in order to show off his power.
3>（v6-9）Jesus insisted that His time has not yet come. Therefore, for the time being, He would not go to Judea.
4>（v10）Later on, Jesus went secretly to the feast. 5>（v11-13）The crowd looked for Jesus and whispered about Him in private.
Themes:
1>The right time had not yet come.
2>Jesus was persecuted for the sake of righteousness.
3>Jesus was alone.
II. Who is God? Who is Jesus Christ? Who is Holy Spirit?
1>（v1）Jesus Christ was soon to be crucified.
2>（v3-4）Jesus was mocked by his own brothers.
3>（v5）Jesus’ brothers did not believe him.
4>（v7）Jesus was hated by the world.
5>（v7）Jesus abhors sin.
6>（v7）Jesus spoke for righteousness.
7>（v5、v8）Jesus submitted to God’s timing.
8>（v12）Jesus provoked dispute.
III. What is God teaching me (command, promise, model, rebuke, warning)?
1.Jesus was alone.
Jesus did not steal, rob, deceive nor did he cheat. He went about healing people, driving out demons and preaching the gospel. He cared for people and showed sympathy to them. Technically, He was supposed to be respected by people; but instead, He faced Jewish leaders who wanted to take his life, He was mocked by His own brothers; people hated Him and talked about Him in secret.
a.The Jewish leaders planned to kill him: 1After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. (v1)
b. Mocked by His own brothers: 3 Jesus' brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
c. Hated by the world: 7“The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that what it does is evil.” (v7) d. The crowd whispered about Him in secret: 11 Now at the Feast the Jews were watching for him and asking, “Where is that man?” 12 Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, “He is a good man.” Others replied, “No, he deceives the people.” (v11-12)
The circumstances above indicated that some intended to kill Him because their positions were threatened and some mocked Him out of disbelief; some hated Him because He pointed out their evil doings. Some held prejudice against Him out of the influence of others and said that he was a deceiver. Thus, we could imagine that Jesus must have been very lonely.
The situation that Jesus was facing indicates that the Light has come to the world (the darkness) and the world (the darkness) does not accept Him.
Reflection: In a society which is full of darkness that perverts rights-and –wrongs and misplaces its values, where do I stand? Do I follow the bad examples of others, get used to it and not care about it? Or do I let the light of Jesus’ righteousness shine through me? Am I persecuted for the sake of righteousness like Jesus was? Do I have a profound sense of loneliness like Jesus did?
2. Not for personal fame
3 Jesus' brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
It was merely human for Jesus’ brothers to say such words. It does not surprise us, because it is human nature. Most people constantly look for opportunities to become famous and to promote themselves. They are absorbed in the pursuit of fame and social status. However, Jesus did not fall into the temptation of fame. He faithfully did what God entrusted Him to do and completed His mission. This is the attitude that whoever serves God should have.
Reflection: Do I eagerly pursue fame and status while serving in the church? Or do I follow Jesus’ example to diligently and faithfully serve God in the position He puts me and not to pursue fame?
3. Submit to God’s plan
Out of disbelief, Jesus' brothers sarcastically said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do.4 No-one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” (v3-4)
6 Therefore Jesus told them, “The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right.” 8 You go to the Feast. I am not yet going up to this Feast, because for me the right time has not yet come. (v6,8)
We notice that in their conversation Jesus mentioned twice that the right time had not yet come. He emphasized that it was not His time yet. In fact, the timing that Jesus referred to was God’s timing and it was according to God’s plan.
Since that Jesus was sent by God, His life had already been planned out by God and His time was set by God. Evidently, Jesus was submissive to God in His every move and time.
Reflection: God has perfect plans for everyone’s life, do I seek for it? Do I have a clear understanding of it? Am I submissive to it?
IV. Prayer/ Life Application
Translated by 曾秀娟
Follow Jesus until the end
John 6:60~71
60On hearing it, many of his disciples said, "This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?"
61Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, "Does this offend you? 62What if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! 63The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life. 64Yet there are some of you who do not believe." For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. 65He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him."
66From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
67"You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve.
68Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."
70Then Jesus replied, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!" 71(He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)
I. Message:
Content:
- Some followers find that Jesus’ teaching was hard and unacceptable by most and begin to grumble (v. 61)
- Jesus explains to the disciples that were in doubt (v. 62)
- Jesus emphasizes that His words are life-giving spirit (v. 63)
- Jesus points out that some of them did not believe in Him and would betray Him (v. 64~65)
- Many of His disciples turned back and no longer followed Him (v. 66)
- Jesus asks the Twelve about their thought and plan (v. 67)
- Simon Peter’s confession of faith and decision (v. 68~69)
- Jesus points out Judas, who would later betray Him (v. 70~71)
Themes:
- Pursuing actively to understand His words
- Follow Jesus until the end
- Confession of faith and wise decision
II. Who is God, Jesus Christ or the Holy Spirit?
- Jesus is omniscient and sees every thought within our heart (v. 61)
- Jesus as the Son of Man (v. 62)
- Jesus ascents to heaven (v. 62)
- Life-giving Spirit (v. 63)
- God enables us (v. 65)
- Jesus is God sent and holy (v. 69)
- Jesus chooses His disciples (v. 69)
- Jesus is betrayed by one of the disciples (v. 70)
III. What does the passage teach us (about commands, promises, examples, exhortations and warnings)?
1. The Truth is hard to accept
60 On hearing it, many of his disciples said, "This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?"
66 From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.
Sometimes it’s really hard to grasp the meaning of revelations on the kingdom of heaven and truth in the Gospel. For instance, Jesus talked about the living water with the Samaritan woman; He also urged the crowd to eat His flesh and to drink His blood following His teaching on the bread of life to the five thousand that was fed. These revelations and teachings did confuse the crowd at that moment and made the truth hard to understand.
Some left because of this and did not gain anything. However, some decided to follow anyway and understood in the end. The apostle John is one of the later.
We often fall into the trap of finding the Bible too hard to understand and give up even though we know, like the disciples back then, that the Bible is God inspired.
Dear God, please have mercy on us! Help us not to give up but to pursue actively. Grant us wisdom from the Holy Spirit and open our eyes to truly understand the wonders contained in the Bible.
Reflections: When I read the Bible, do I find it hard to understand? If it’s true, I must be more careful. Must not give up but look for help from church, pastors and spiritual leaders. Otherwise, I may end up like the crowd leaving Jesus; in other words, becoming a Christian that attends Sunday service only or one that carries only the title without living it. If we do not read the Bible or cannot understand the Bible, we cannot follow His will in our daily lives! We end up walking in our own way.
2. We must follow Jesus until the end
According to earlier verses in this chapter, a huge crowd followed Jesus after the miracle of five loaves of bread and two fishes. Also, it is recorded in Luke 14:25 that there were many that walked with Him. Even though many followed, not all followed to the end. A number of the followers could not persevere and gave up.
There were many reasons explaining the abandons. Some left due to family matters (Luke 9:57-62); some could not live up to Jesus’ challenge and pay the price of following Jesus (Luke 14:25-35). In today’s passage, many left for other reasons. First, they could not understand Jesus: “60 on hearing it, many of his disciples said, "This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?" 66 From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him.” Second, they could not see Jesus fulfilling their expectation: some followed for miracles, some for food and some others wished He’d become a political leader. As soon as they learned that Jesus was to die for them, they left disappointed and lost their hopes.
Reflections: For how many years have I believed and followed Jesus? Do I have the determination to follow Him until the end? What are my motives in following Him, for miracles or food? If these two answers and true, the situation is extremely precarious since the crowd that left Jesus was seeking the same.
3. Confession of faith and decision
67 "You do not want to leave too, do you?" Jesus asked the Twelve. 68 Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God."
This is a confession of faith and is extremely important and correct decision. Hope this confession of faith, given by Simon Peter on behalf of the Twelve is ours as well.
Reflections: I must look back on how I decided to follow and believe in Jesus. Can I be like Simon Peter to come before our Lord and confess, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.”?
4. Do not follow Judas’ steps
70 Then Jesus replied, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!" 71 (He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.)
Following Jesus’ question for the Twelve, "You do not want to leave too, do you?" Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God." However, we know that not all twelve believed in Jesus. Judas had other plans.
Since Jesus is God, hence He knows what would happen and sees Judas’ motives. Therefore He pointed out, “one of you is a devil!” referring to Judas. For He knew Judas would betray Him.
Reflections: Did I ever betray Jesus and followed Judas’ steps? If I did, I pray for forgiveness, mercy and an opportunity to repent.
Tanslated: 顏偉哲
15.10.09
Eat of Jesus’ flesh and drink of His blood
41 At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, I am the bread that came down from heaven.
42 They said, Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, 'I came down from heaven'?
43 Stop grumbling among yourselves, Jesus answered.
44 No-one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day.
45 It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.' Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.
46 No-one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father.
47 I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.
48 I am the bread of life.
49 Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died.
50 But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which a man may eat and not die.
51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live for ever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
52 Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, How can this man give us his flesh to eat?
53 Jesus said to them, I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.
54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.
55 For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink.
56 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.
57 Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.
58 This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live for ever.
59 He said this while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum.
- Content：
1>（v41-42）The crowd disputed Jesus’ self-proclamation as the Bread of Life because they knew his earthly family.
2>（v43-
3>（v48-51a）Once again, Jesus claimed that he was the Bread of Life.
4>（v51b）Through the topic of “the Bread of Life”, Jesus foretold His impending crucifixion and the meaning of the final supper (eating His flesh).
5>（v52）The Jews were all the more perplexed after listening to Jesus talk about “eating His flesh” and argued among themselves.
6>（v51b-59）Jesus expounded the meaning of His impending crucifixion and the final supper.
Whoever eats Jesus’ flesh and drinks his blood has eternal life, and Jesus will raise him up at the last day. (See v51b-59)
Subject
：
1>Jesus is the Bread of Life.
2>Eat of Jesus’ flesh and drink of His blood.
二、Who is God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit?
01>（v41-42）Jesus Christ who descended from heaven.
02>（v42）Jesus Christ who is the Son of Man (son of Joseph).
03>（v44）God sent Jesus Christ to the world.
04>（v44）Jesus Christ who was sent by God.
05>（v44、v54）
06>
07>（v46）Jesus Christ who has seen the Father.
08>（v47）Jesus Christ who gives eternal life.
09>（v48-51）Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life.
10>（v53-55）J
11>
三、What did I learn from the lesson (command, promise, example, blame, and warning)?
1> Prophets were rejected in their hometown.
41 At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, I am the bread that came down from heaven. 42 They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, 'I came down from heaven'?” (v41-42）
There is a Taiwanese saying, “People who live close to the shrine show no respect for it.” In Luke 4:24, Jesus said, 24 “I tell you the truth,” he continued, “no prophet is accepted in his home town.”
Another account in John 1:45-46 is: 45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote— Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” 46“Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip. Thus, no prophets were respected in their hometown, they were rejected.
Reflection: Do I always judge people by their qualifications, their background and their appearance? Do I treat them with disrespect?
2>Only Christ has seen the Father
Because the heavenly Father is a Spirit without physical form, therefore no one has ever seen Him. Since Jesus Christ is the Son of God and sent by God, only He has seen God. He descends from heaven to become human and only through Him can God be fully revealed.
Thus, whoever sees Jesus Christ sees God; whoever knows Jesus Christ knows God. Whoever receives Jesus Christ receives God; whoever is in Jesus Christ is also in God.
Reflection: How do I get to know God? Is it through Jesus Christ? How do I get to know Jesus Christ? How much do I know about Jesus Christ?
3> The declaration of the Holy Communion
53 Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.55 For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink.” (v53-55)
1Corinthians 11:23-26, on the Holy Communion set by Jesus, Paul wrote, 23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread,24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me. 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.” (1Corinthians 11:23-26)
It was an opportunity for Jesus to foretell his death and to clarify the significance of the Holy Communion.
Reflection: Do I comprehend the redemptive work that Jesus has done by dying for us? Do I understand the significance of the Holy Communion and do I treasure the opportunity to partake in it?
4> An inseparable relationship
Jesus said, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.” (v56) It was a description of a life relationship. To those who eat of his flesh and drink of his blood and whose life is in him through the Holy Communion, Jesus says that they are in Him and Him in them. It is an intimate relationship, like the mixture of water and milk, inseparable. This is the kind of life relationship that a vivacious Christian should have with Jesus Christ.
Reflection: What is my life relationship with Jesus? Is it beyond reach? Is it stable (is it kind of close yet so far away?)? Or is it intimate, inseparable like that of water and milk?
5> Victory over the power of death v5
57 Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your forefathers ate manna and died, but he who feeds on this bread will live for ever.
Jesus emphasizes that whoever eats His flesh will live because of Him and will live forever. They will not die like their ancestors despite of the fact that they ate manna in the wilderness. He stresses that whoever builds a life relationship with him will have eternal life.
Jesus’ proclamation reminds me of Paul’s teaching on this subject in 1Corinthians 15, 55Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? 56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.57 All thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore, through Jesus Christ we shall have victory over the power of death!
Reflection: Do I know the significance of life? What is my perspective on my life? Am I wandering about in life? Do I have the wisdom to count my days, especially in terms of living my life to the fullest, relying on Jesus and letting my life be driven by eternity?
Translated by 曾秀娟
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