The Book of John chapters 9-16

 

John 9

Joh 9:1 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. Here we have a man who was born physically blind. (John 9:32).

Joh 9:2 And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Some of the disciples asked (not necessarily of the twelve), what was the cause of this mans blindness? Was it his sin or his parents sin? Lets see what Jesus says. 

Joh 9:3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him. Jesus answers them, it was not his sins, or his parents sins. "This happened so the power of God could be seen in him."

Joh 9:4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. It looks like there is going to be another miracle here about to take place while Jesus is still around. (The night coming is a reference to the cross). There was a time coming soon when Jesus would no longer be at work in the world. He was about to be crucified on the cross, rise from the dead, and ascend to heaven. i.e. Jesus is talking about taking advantage of the opportunities in front of us. (Don't be a procrastinator).

Joh 9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. I AM: Our Lord here claims one of the titles given by the Jews to the Divine Being. So in (Bammidbar Rabba, § 15, fol. 229.1); "The Israelites said to God, O Lord of the universe, thou commandest us to light lamps to thee, yet thou art the light of the world." It was also a title of the Messiah (Isaiah 49:6, Isaiah 60:1); and in a remarkable passage of (Yalkut Rubeni, fol. 6), it is said in (Genesis 1:4). "From this we learn that the holy and blessed God saw the light of the Messiah, and his works, before the world was created; and reserved it for the Messiah, and his generation, under the throne of his glory." Satan said to the holy and blessed God, For whom dost thou reserve that light which is under the throne of thy glory? God answered, For him who shall subdue thee, and overwhelm thee with confusion. Satan rejoined, Lord of the universe, shew that person to me. God said, Come, and see him. "When he saw him, he was greatly agitated, and fell upon his face, saying, Truly this is the Messiah, who shall cast me and idolaters into hell."

Joh 9:6 When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, Anointed the eyes of the blind with the clay, or, spread the clay upon the eyes of the blind man. There were also others ways in the bible that Jesus used to heal the blind. (Matthew 9:29, Mark 8:23. Mark 10:52). Keep in mind that the bible also talks about those who are spiritually blind because they are not believers, or they have been deceived by man.

Joh 9:7 And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing. This would be about a third of a mile walk to Siloam, but the man did what Jesus asked. "The man was healed and could see."

Joh 9:8 The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged? Those who knew this man were a little confused about all of a sudden this man could see.

Joh 9:9 Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he. Some said he was the beggar and some said he was a different man that looked like him. But, the man kept saying, "Yes, I am the one He healed and can see!"

Joh 9:10 Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened? They wanted to know who healed him?

Joh 9:11 He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight. The man told them that it was Jesus and explained what He had done. 

Joh 9:12 Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not. The man did not know where Jesus was, but he knew what Jesus had done and shared the news with them.

Joh 9:13 They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind. So, they took the man to the Pharisees. Here we go again; they are not going to be very happy when they hear this. What will they try to accuse Jesus of doing wrong now?

Joh 9:14 And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. Looks like it is going to be a Sabbath law that they are going to blame Jesus for breaking. The actual Sabbath laws were written in (Exodus 20:8-10), but over time the Pharisees (the strictest sect of Judaism), developed more complex laws through their oral traditions. (Traditions of men). Jesus was constantly challenging the Pharisees about their regulations, especially those regarding the Sabbath tradition.

Joh 9:15 Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. The Pharisees asked the man about everything that happened and how Jesus did the healing. "They wanted details." So, the man told them everything. After all, they couldn't do what Jesus had just done, or anything even close, so they were a little upset and confused.

Joh 9:16 Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them. Some of the Pharisees said, "This man Jesus is not from God, because He is working on the Sabbath." (They thought He was sinning because of what He did on the Sabbath). Others said, "How could an ordinary sinner do such miracles?" And of course, there was deep division among them. You see, the Pharisees were putting just as high of value on their oral traditions (traditions of men), as they did on the written Scriptures. Jesus told them before in (Mark 7:9). You give up Gods Word for your own falseness. It still goes on today in many churches with all their long rituals, fancy robes, confession of sins to man, etc. (Hypocritical traditions of men).

Joh 9:17 They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet. Since the man who had been blind was the one who experienced the healing of his sight, the Pharisees wanted to know his opinion on the man who healed him. The man told them, "I think He must be a prophet." (The man knew that He must have been from God to perform such a healing).

Joh 9:18 But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight. The Jewish leaders did not believe that the man was even blind to begin with. They wanted proof, so they called in his parents. (Always go right to the source for the truth).

Joh 9:19 And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see? So, they asked the parents of the man who was healed from blindness. Is this you son? Was he born blind? How can he see now? "They are not going to like the answer they receive."

Joh 9:20 His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: The parents of the man confirmed that he was their son and he was born blind. 

Joh 9:21 But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself. They did not know how he could see now, or who healed him. But, they told the Jewish leaders that he is old enough to speak for himself. (I think they knew more than they were saying).

Joh 9:22 These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue. The parents didn't want to say more than they had to because they were afraid of being excommunicated. (Expelled from the synagogue). How many today follow traditions of men instead of the truth of God's Word for the same reason? Do you really think excommunication from a certain religious organization can keep you from salvation? If you do; you are a bigger fool than they are. "Only God can determine ones salvation!" (Not any man, or religious organization).

Joh 9:23 Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him. The parents put it all on their son. (They just wanted to stay out of it). "Talk about throwing your son under the buss." How would you act? Would you stand up for the truth, or just stand on the sidelines and see what happens?

Joh 9:24 Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. The Jewish leaders called the man back and told him to give God the glory, because they think that Jesus is a sinner. This wouldn't be the first time they called Jesus a sinner. Jesus hung with sinners, so of course they figured he was a sinner also. (Luke 7:39, Luke 15:2, Luke 19:7). All the Holier than thou people and teachers of the religious law didn't like the fact that He associated with sinners. (That is who Christ came to save, so why wouldn't He associate with them). You don't need to be afraid to hang around sinners as long as you are in Christ. These are the people who need to be reached.

Joh 9:25 He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. "I don't know whether He is a sinner," the man replied. All I know is that I was blind, and now I can see!" This man gave them the straight facts. The lesson here is not how much you know about God's Word, but rather how much God has done for you. (Many were searching for God, but this man found Him). Kind of reminds me of the song "Amazing Grace."

Joh 9:26 Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? Again they said to the man, "How did He heal you?" (They wanted to know so bad if there was some secret behind the healing).

Joh 9:27 He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples? "Look!" The man said. I have already told you once. Didn't you listen? Why do I have to keep repeating myself? Do you want to become one of His disciples too? This man knew they didn't want to, but he asked the question anyway. (Maybe a little sarcasm here on the mans part). I think he knew that would upset them a little. 

Joh 9:28 Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples. So, they cursed the man and said; You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! (A little "holier than thou" answer from the Jewish leaders). The man was not only rebuked, but abused. Just as you will be if you teach the truth. (1 Corinthians 4:12). Be patient with those who abuse us as Christ did. (1 Peter 2:23). Christ did not retaliate when He was insulted. He did not threaten revenge when He suffered. Everything that happened to Christ was God's will and He carried it out. (This may be a little hard for us at times, but do your best). After all, we are only human. God knows we will never have the heart, or mind of Christ; but He wants us to be as wise as possible with the knowledge He has given us.

Joh 9:29 We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is. We know about God speaking to Moses, but we don't even know where this man comes form. (They didn't know because they never really studied the scriptures). It was written! Moses knew about the coming messiah. (Deuteronomy 18:15-19).

Joh 9:30 The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. The man replied; "Why that's strange." He healed my eyes, and you don't know where He comes from?

Joh 9:31 Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. Yes... God does not hear sinners. (Psalm 66:18). If you do not repent of your sins to God; He will not hear you. (Matthew 3:2, Acts 3:19). However, He will listen to those who obey Him and do His will. (1 John 3:21-22). If you please God and keep His commandments, He will please you.

Joh 9:32 Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. From the beginning of time, till the time of this event, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born physically blind. Yet, Isaiah would say in the old testament: And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. (Isaiah 29:18). We are not only talking about physical blindness, but we are speaking of the spiritually blind here.

Joh 9:33 If this man were not of God, he could do nothing. The healed man tells them; "If this man was not from God, He couldn't have done this." (Is there some kind of warning here)? Lets go to the book of Acts and listen to what a Pharisee named Gamaliel (a doctor of law), says to the council about the apostles. (Acts 5:38-39). His advice was to leave these men alone; if what they teach and do is on their own it will also fail. (If it is not of God and only men, it will always fail). If what they teach and do is of God, you cannot stop them, or you will be fighting against God. (This Pharisee Gamaliel was a wise man and knew God was with them). Just as this man knew Jesus was of God.  

Joh 9:34 They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out. You were born a sinner they said to the man. (a little judgmental here). "Are you trying to teach us?" (Sounds like the holier than thou know it alls). So, they threw the man out of the synagogue. (Excommunicated him)! Believe me; any church, organization, denomination, priest, pastor or teacher, that thinks they have all the answers, "is full of it." Only God has all the answers, and He will reveal them to us in the end times at Christ's return in the millennium teachings.   

Joh 9:35 Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? When Jesus heard what happened, He found the man and asked him, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" The key here is that "Jesus found the man." He looked for him and found the man because the man was standing up for Him. If you stand up for Jesus, He will stand up for you when in need. (1 Peter 4:14). If you are made fun of or insulted for being a Christian, don't let it get you down, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.  

Joh 9:36 He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? The man was still not sure here and asked, Who is he Lord? "I want to believe in Him."

Joh 9:37 And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. You have seen Him Jesus replies, "He is speaking to you." I believe the man finally recognizes the voice of Jesus who spoke to him and told him to wash in the pool of Siloam. But now not only was his physical sight restored to see Jesus, but his spiritual eyes were open as well. (Psalm 146:8), God opens the eyes of the spiritual blind.

Joh 9:38 And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him. The man believed! "He worshiped Jesus." The man was cast out of the synagogue by the Pharisees, but Jesus will never cast him out. (John 6:37).

Joh 9:39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. Jesus explains to the man, "I entered this world to render judgment; to give sight to the blind (spiritual blind), and to show those who think they see (the know it alls), that they are blind." (Blind to the truth)!

Joh 9:40 And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also? The Pharisees get a little bold here. "Are you saying that we are blind?"

Joh 9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth. Jesus replies to them; "If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty," "but you remain blind because you claim you can see." The Pharisees claimed to know God, but they didn't. You see, if you claim to know God but you don't know Jesus, you are deceiving yourself. "Just like the Pharisees." A good play on (1 John 1:8-10). If we say we will never sin, we are only fooling ourselves and refusing to accept the truth. (Many believe that once you are saved you cannot sin). Not so... We are all sinners as long as we are in this flesh body. If we confess our sins, we can count on God to wash away all our sins. (Christ became that one time sacrifice for our sins). If we say we have not sinned, we are lying to ourselves and we are calling God a liar, because He said we have all sinned. We are all sinners! (Romans 3:23).

John 10

Joh 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. Jesus addresses these same Pharisees that were before Him with another truth. "Anyone who sneaks over the wall of the sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber!" The "thief" (one who steals by stealth, or breaks into your house at night). The "robber" (a plunderer or bandit, one who beats you up on the street and steals your stuff). Now, lets take a look at what the sheepfold is: (a large stone wall enclosure with no roof, like a coral or pen). The sheepfold would have one entrance like and opening in the wall with a gate or door. In the summer, the flocks stayed out in the field all night, but in the winter, the flocks were gathered into the sheepfolds (or pens). The shepherd would lead the sheep and they would follow him. (In the east, the sheep were given names like pets and knew the voice of their shepherd). "The sheep will always follow a good shepherd."

Joh 10:2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. One who enters through the gate (the door), is the shepherd of the sheep. (The word "pastor" comes from the Latin word "shepherd"). Jesus is saying that He is the "Door" and the "shepherd" is one who comes to the sheep through Jesus. i.e. "The Pastor comes to the sheep through Christ." However, Christ is also our "Chief Shepherd," and we are all His sheep. (Hebrews 13:20, 1 Peter 2:25, 1 Peter 5:4).   

Joh 10:3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him (the shepherd), and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls to the sheep by name and leads them out. Jesus knows your name also as one of His little sheep, or children.

Joh 10:4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. After the shepherd gathers his flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. The shepherd sets the example like Christ did. He does not push the sheep, he leads them. (1 Peter 2:21). God calls us to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. Christ is our example and we should try the best we can to follow His footsteps. It is good for the soul to be kind and pleasing to others like Christ was.

Joh 10:5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. The sheep won't follow a stranger; they will run from him because they do not know his voice. i.e. those who know Christ will follow Him, just as some of the Jews started to follow Jesus (like the blind man).

Joh 10:6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. They still didn't understand what Jesus meant.

Joh 10:7 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. Jesus told them: "I am the gate (the door), of the sheep, not of the sheepfold." Christ is that "Door" that we must enter and pass through as He calls to us. If He does not call, knock on the door and He will answer. (Luke 11:9-10).

Joh 10:8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. All who came before Me were thieves and robbers. i.e. They were not true shepherds, so the sheep did not hear them, or follow them. Remember (John 10:5), the sheep will not follow a stranger. The true Shepherd could not come till God's purpose was ripe in the fullness of the times. (Galatians 4:4). When the right time came, God sent His Son, born of woman, under the law. (Genesis 49:10, John 1:14, Hebrews 2:14). But Christ did not come to destroy the law, but to fulfill the law. (Matthew 5:17). Moses and the prophets were the ones that came before Christ, but they were not "thieves and robbers." None of them claimed to do more then point, as John the Baptist did, to the Coming One. All the others were deceivers. False messiahs and wicked leaders like Herod. (Here Jesus was aiming at the Scribes and Pharisees, those who were not trusting, and did not recognize the Messiah).

Joh 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. "I AM" (Yahveh), "The Door," Jesus continues. "Those who come in through Me will be saved." They will come and go as they please and find good pastures. We have a condition here. "It is important that you know who He is." Who is He? He is the "Bread of life," (John 6:35). He is "The Light of the world," (John 8:12). He is "The Payment for our sins," (John 8:24). He is the "The Way, The Truth, and The Life," (John 14:6). He is "The I AM," (John 8:58). "He is God!"

Joh 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. The thief's purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. (i.e. Satan). My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. Eternal life! (John 3:16). In other words, follow Satan and you will die. Follow Christ and you will live.

Joh 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. The "Good Shepherd" (Jesus Christ), sacrifices His "life" (soul), for the "sheep" (His children). This is connected with death, and (Psalms 22). The "great Shepherd" is connected with the resurrection. (Hebrews 13:20, Psalms 23). The "Chief Shepherd" with glory (1 Peter 5:4, Psalms 24).

Joh 10:12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. A hired hand (unlearned, inexperienced teacher), will run when he sees a wolf (false prophets and teachers) coming. He will abandon the sheep because they do not belong to him because he is not their shepherd. So, the wolf (Satan, false prophets and teachers), attacks them and scatters the flock. (Matthew 7:15, Matthew 10:16, Acts 20:29). The Apostle Paul knew that after he was gone that false teachers would jump on the flock like vicious wolves. (Just as it is today, the holier than thou people spreading the traditions of men and false doctrine). "Do Not Be Deceived."

Joh 10:13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. The hired hand runs away because he's just in it for the money and doesn't really care about the sheep. (2 Peter 2:3). They think up clever lies and twist the truth of the Word to make it fit your way of thinking, so they can get a hold of your money. "Their time is coming." (Beware of preachers always asking for money). "You will find in most churches today that the ones who give the most money, will get the most attention."

Joh 10:14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. The Good Shepherd (Jesus Christ), knows His children and they know Him. (2 Timothy 2:19). God knows who are His and who teaches the truth. All who belong to God must turn away from false teachings and tradition of men.

Joh 10:15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. Jesus is saying that just as He knows His children, His Father knows Him, and as His children know Him, He knows the Father. 

Joh 10:16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. Jesus tells us about other sheep that He has that are not of this sheepfold. He says that He must bring them also, and they will listen to His voice when He calls to them. Then their will be just one flock and One Shepherd. Of course the "One Shepherd" will be Christ, but who are the "other sheep" He is talking about? Some say that this is referring to the ten lost tribes of Israel that migrated to Europe and America. However, I believe that here He is talking about the Gentile nations. (Revelation 5:9). Christ's blood has bought our salvation if we accept it, and "all" can have eternal life. (Other sheep not from the fold of Israel will also make it to the flock of God). "God is the Father of all people." (Ephesians 4:6).

Joh 10:17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. Jesus is saying that the Father loves Me because I lay down My life for these people, so I can take it back again. (Hebrews 2:9). Christ suffered the death for us, and "He is now crowned with glory and honor." He tasted and defeated death for all of us. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16). One of the most important verses in the bible. His purpose foretold in the book of Isaiah. (Isaiah 42:1-7). Jesus will also be the light to the gentiles and those who are prisoners to darkness. (Those all the way back to Adam and Noah's time).

Joh 10:18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. No one can take the life from Jesus. He sacrificed it voluntarily. He has the authority to lay His life down when He wants and to take it up again at His will. This is what the Heavenly Father has commanded. (He made the choice to die for you because He loves you).

Joh 10:19 There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings. Division again among the people because of what He had said. "Jesus speaks of this division." (Matthew 10:34-35, Luke 12:51-53). The division is between good and evil; "God and Satan." (Matthew 10:34-36, 24:7-10). Even families will be divided over Me. Division among the families and the churches. (John 10:19-21, 15:18-21). Take a good look today at the churches, and even in your own family. One believes this way, and another believes a different way. People believing different religions and doctrines of men. (Satan divides families with religion). "Satan has divided this country!"

Joh 10:20 And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him? Some said that Jesus was demon possessed and out of His mind, so why listen to Him? The answer is in (John 8:47), they would not listen because they did not belong to God. If they were from God, they would have gladly listened.

Joh 10:21 Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind? But, others would say; this man is not possesses by a demon. "Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" The answer is no. (John 9:32, Psalm 146:8, Proverbs 20:12, Isaiah 35:5-6). Only God can do it.

Joh 10:22 And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter. It was winter now in Jerusalem and Jesus was there during the time of Hanukkak, the festival of dedication. (i.e. celebrates the cleansing of Ezra's temple, victory by Judas Maccabeus). After its defilement by Antiochus Epiphanes, 25th Chislen (December), 164 B.C.  

Joh 10:23 And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon's porch. Jesus was in the temple walking through the section know as Solomon's Colonnade. (Acts 3:11, Acts 5:12).

Joh 10:24 Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. The non-believers surrounded Him and asked; How long are you going to keep us in suspense? "If you are the Messiah, just tell us plainly." (He was trying to, but their eyes and ears were spiritually covered). They made it sound like Jesus was not very clear as to who He was. But, back in (John 8:58), He made it very clear to them. (He was the "I AM" claiming to be God).

Joh 10:25 Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. Jesus tells them very clearly, "I told you before who "I AM" and you don't believe Me." The works I do in My Father's name are proof. (John 5:36, 9:32, 15:24). Proof to those who had eyes to see.

Joh 10:26 But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. You don't believe Me because you are not My sheep. (1 John 4:6). Only those who are children of God will listen to us. (Will listen to the truth of the Word). The majority won't! That is another way to discern if the message of truth is from God; if it is, the world will not listen to it. (The world would rather follow what is popular, new, or the old traditions of men).

Joh 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: My sheep (children), listen to My voice (the Word), and I know them, and they follow Me. (True Christians and children of God will listen, learn, follow, and lead). "They won't act like a bunch of holier than thou powder puffs."

Joh 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. What is the reward for following Jesus. "Eternal life!" (His children will never perish). No man can snatch them away from Jesus. Lets take a good look at this word "perish" in the Strong's #G622 "apollumi" which means "to fully destroy." i.e. man can kill your flesh, but only God can kill the soul. (Matthew 10:28). Yes, only God can destroy your soul. (Your soul is yourself; the spirit is the intellect of the soul). God can blot you out as though you never existed, just as Satan is sentenced to perish. Once the anointed cherub that guarded the mercy seat of God will perish forever. (Ezekiel 28:14-19).

Joh 10:29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. My Father has given Me these children, and He is more powerful than anyone else Jesus is saying. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand.

Joh 10:30 I and my Father are one. One in essence. "The deity of Christ." (Isaiah 9:6). His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. "The I AM." (John 8:58). Before Abraham I AM. "The apostles called Him God." (John 1:1, John 20:28, Romans 9:5). "God calls Jesus God." (Hebrews 1:7-8). His throne will be forever. What is the importance of His identity? You better know His true identity because their is more than one claiming to be Jesus out there. (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). Don't forget false teachers and the antichrist. Make sure you follow the "true" Jesus of the bible and not the fake.     

Joh 10:31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Once again they wanted to kill Him. Remember that these were mostly kenites, those who claimed to be Jews, but were of the synagogue of Satan. (Revelation 3:9).

Joh 10:32 Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? Jesus tells them, "At My Father's direction I have done many good works. Which one are you going to stone Me for?" (Psalm 35:12, 1 John 3:13). They wanted to repay Christ evil for good. Don't be surprised if the world hates you for teaching the truth. They hated Christ because they could not take the truth, just as so many today. Popular doctrine and traditions of men will never bring you salvation. "Only the truth will set you free."

Joh 10:33 The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God. The Jews replied, "Were stoning you for blasphemy, not for any good works." Your a mere man, and claim to be God!

Joh 10:34 Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? Jesus replies, "It is written in your own scriptures, I say you are gods." (Luke 24:44, Psalm 82). Describing the judges of Israel. Not that these judges were exalted beings, but that they were like "gods" because they held power over the people they judged.

Joh 10:35 If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; Jesus goes on to say, you know the scriptures can't be altered. The scriptures say the people who received God's message were called god's.

Joh 10:36 Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God? So then, why do you call it blasphemy when I say 'I am the Son of God?' The Father set Me apart and sent Me into the world. (i.e. Jesus is saying, if the lesser thing is true, then the greater thing is true).   

Joh 10:37 If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. Jesus tells them, "Don't believe Me unless I carry out My Father's work."

Joh 10:38 But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. But, If I do the works of My Father, believe in them, even if you do not believe in Me. Then you will know that the Father is in Me, and I am in the Father. In other words, His works have a voice of their own. (Psalm 19:1-4). "The heavens declare God's glory."

Joh 10:39 Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand, Once again they tried to kill Him, but He got away and left them. (Devine intervention because it was not His time yet).

Joh 10:40 And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode. He went to beyond the Jordan River near the place John was first baptizing. (This was December, He remained away till April, visiting Bethany (John 11:1). Then spending the latter part of the time at Ephraim. (John 11:54). 

Joh 10:41 And many resorted unto him, and said, John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true. Many followed Jesus. The people remarked to one another, "John didn't perform miraculous signs," but everything he said about this man has come true.

Joh 10:42 And many believed on him there. Many who were there believed in Jesus. The important lesson here... Do you believe in Him?

John 11

Joh 11:1 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. Lazarus (whom God helps), (form of Hebrew name Eleazar), was sick. He lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha.

Joh 11:2 (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.) This is the same Mary that anointed the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. (Then she wiped them with her hair). (Luke 7:37-38).

Joh 11:3 Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. The two sisters sent a message to Jesus telling Him that Lazarus was sick and weakening. 

Joh 11:4 When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Jesus heard the news and said, "Lazarus's sickness will not end in death. This happened for the Glory of God so that the Son of God will receive His glory from this." (Another miracle is about to take place here). Sound familiar? Remember when Jesus came across the man who was blind? (John 9:2-3). This is going to be more than just a healing.

Joh 11:5 Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. Jesus loved all three of them. (They were His friends).

Joh 11:6 When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Even though Jesus heard the news about Lazarus, He remained where He was for a few more days. (It's all about God's timing).

Joh 11:7 Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again. After a few days Jesus says to His disciples, let's go back to Judea. (Now was the correct time to see Lazarus).

Joh 11:8 His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again? The Disciples were concerned what would happen to Jesus if He returned where they wanted to stone Him a few days earlier.

Joh 11:9 Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. Jesus tells them; there are twelve hours of daylight in every day. During the day people can walk safely because they have the light of this world. (The light of this world would be the sun). It was common for the Jews at this time to divide their daylight into twelve parts. (Sunrise to sunset, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.).     

Joh 11:10 But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. In the night they may stumble because they have no light. (Common sense). However, we have two levels of teaching here. One being the "sun," which is the light of this world. The other being the "Son," the true light of the world, which is Jesus Christ. Jesus is telling the disciples that He only has so much time left in His earthly ministry, and He only has so much time to do what God has sent Him to do. "Walking in the light is following God's will." (John 8:12). We know that Christ is that "Light" just as He said, and we are to be a "light" to the world for others to see, as examples of true Christianity. (Isaiah 60:1-3, Acts 13:47).

Joh 11:11 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. Jesus tells the disciples that Lazarus sleeps, but He would go and wake Him. (Going with a set purpose). The disciples think he is just sleeping; but Jesus is going to bring Lazarus back to life.

Joh 11:12 Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. They still think Lazarus is just sleeping and the rest will do him well making him better.   

Joh 11:13 Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. They still didn't understand that Jesus was speaking of his death. 

Joh 11:14 Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. Jesus tells them straight up, "Lazarus is dead."

Joh 11:15 And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him. For your sakes, I'm glad I was not there Jesus tells them. Now you will really believe! Lets go see him. (Jesus knew that if He was there when Lazarus was sick, He would have had to heal him). He could have never refused the request of Mary and Martha. However, it was time for bringing someone back to life, to show the real Glory of God. "This would show the power of His Son, to the disciples."

Joh 11:16 Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him. Thomas, which is called Didymus (the twin), said to the other disciples, "let's go too and die with Jesus." (Thomas realized that to return to the neighborhood of Jerusalem meant certain death). Pretty brave statement from Thomas, but could he do what he said?

Joh 11:17 Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already. Jesus arrived at Bethany and was told Lazarus had been in his grave for four days.

Joh 11:18 Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off: A furlong is about 1/8th of a mile. Bethany was only about two miles from Jerusalem.

Joh 11:19 And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. Many people had come to console Martha and Mary in their loss.

Joh 11:20 Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. Martha went to meet Jesus and Mary remained in the house. 

Joh 11:21 Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. Martha probably a little upset with Jesus, tells Him, "Lord if only you had been here, my brother would not have died." (Note that the Lord does not rebuke Martha for being upset with Him, or questioning His actions). There are going to be times when we don't fully understand things that happen in this world, or in our lives. Many times we will find ourselves being upset with God and even blaming Him. (Don't worry, God can handle you being upset with Him at times). Remember that Job was upset with God. (Job 23:1-17). However, God also rebuked Job a little. (Job 38:1-3). Remember, God is your spiritual parent and knows what is best for you. If you do get upset with Him, always make sure that you apologize, repent, and make things right again.     

Joh 11:22 But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. But yet, "I know that God will give you whatever you ask." (Was this an act of faith on Martha's part)?

Joh 11:23 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Meaning, He will bring Him back to life. 

Joh 11:24 Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Martha is thinking of the last days, when all will rise in our spiritual bodies. (Isaiah 26:19).

Joh 11:25 Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: Jesus tells her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in Me will live, even after dying." (John 5:21, John 6:39-40, John 6:44).

Joh 11:26 And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? Anyone who lives in Me and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this Martha Jesus asked? (John 3:16). One of the most important scriptures in the bible.

Joh 11:27 She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world. Yes Martha says, I have always believed that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who has come into the world from God. (1 John 5:1, 1 John 5:20). Martha believed He was the true Christ, "she was a child of God."

Joh 11:28 And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee. Martha went to see Mary and called her aside from the mourners and told her, "The master (teacher), is here and wants to see you." This word Master here refers to Christ, but in general it is "didaskalos" Strong's G1320, meaning an instructor, or teacher. (John 13:13).

Joh 11:29 As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him. Mary went immediately to Him. 

Joh 11:30 Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him. Jesus was outside the village at the place where Martha met Him. (John 11:20). 

Joh 11:31 The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there. When Mary left the house, the people followed her thinking she was going to the grave of Lazarus to weep.   

Joh 11:32 Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. When Mary arrived she saw Jesus; she fell to His feet and said, "Lord, if only you were here, my brother would not have died." Just as Martha said in (John 11:21). (Possibly Mary and Martha were discussing this earlier). 

Joh 11:33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, When Jesus saw her and the people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within Him, and He was deeply troubled. Why was Jesus upset? Was it because of the unbelief of the people that were there? Was it because He felt bad that Mary and Martha were in a way frustrated with Him for not being there to save Lazarus? Maybe Jesus was just sympathizing with them. Only Jesus can know what He really felt.

Joh 11:34 And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see. "Where have you put Him Jesus asked?" They told Him come and see.

Joh 11:35 Jesus wept. "Then Jesus wept." (Shed tears for his friend). Yes, God cries when he sees harm come to one of His children.

Joh 11:36 Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him! The people that were standing nearby said, "See how He loved him."

Joh 11:37 And some of them said, Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died? But others said, "This man healed a blind man; couldn't He have kept Lazarus from dying?" Jesus would face another question similar to this one at His crucifixion, only it would pertain to saving Himself. (Matthew 27:40-42, Luke 23:35, Luke 23:39).

Joh 11:38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. Jesus was still angry as He arrived at the tomb of Lazarus. (This was a cave opening with a large bolder in front of it).

Joh 11:39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. "Roll the stone aside," Jesus commanded! But Martha protested and said, "Lord, he has been dead four days now and the smell will be terrible." How does the number four come into play here? The number four represents God’s creative works, especially works associated with the earth. (The Rabbis taught that the spirit wandered about for three days, seeking readmission to the body, but abandoned it on the forth day, as corruption began then). Here Jesus was about to raise Lazarus from the earth and the corruption of death.

Joh 11:40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? What was the response from Jesus? "Didn't I tell you before that you would see God's glory if you believe?" (i.e. The manifestation of the same glory by which Christ was raised). (Romans 6:4).

Joh 11:41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. So the people rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, "Father, thank you for hearing Me." (Jesus used this term many times when praying to the Father). Jesus always thanked the Father for hearing His prayers, or requests just as we should.

Joh 11:42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. The Father always hears Jesus in prayer, and Jesus always thanks the Father. But, this time He says it out loud for the peoples sake, so they will believe that the Father had sent Him. "They knew that the Messiah was coming, but they were still not sure that this man was Him." (1 John 4:14). Here they have seen that God has sent a Savior to the world; spoken of in the Old Testament Psalms 22, and Zechariah 9:9-10. (But, would they believe He was the savior they were looking for)?

Joh 11:43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. Then Jesus shouted, "Lazarus, come out!" Notice that Jesus called Lazarus by name. If He hadn't, perhaps others that were buried there would have come out also. (Talk about night of the living dead).

Joh 11:44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go. Lazarus comes walking out with his hands and feet bound in grave-cloths and his face was wrapped in a head-cloth. (It is sufficient to observe, that he who could raise Lazarus from the dead, could, with a much less exertion of power, have so loosened or removed the bandages of his feet and legs as to have rendered it practicable for him to come forth). Not only was Lazarus restored to life, but also to health, as appears from the promptness of response of his motion. (This would constitute a new miracle).

Joh 11:45 Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him. Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus now that they saw what happened. (Now many believed He was the messiah).

Joh 11:46 But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done. Thus there was a great increase of disciples, which alarmed the rulers. Why? They didn't want their toes stepped on either. (These are the ones who did not want to follow Jesus, for fear of the Pharisees that would expel them from the synagogue). You will find even today that when you teach truth and pull people from other churches and denominations that they will not be very happy with you.

Joh 11:47 Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles. Here comes the chief priests (the Sadducees), and (Pharisees), calling the high council together to decide what they should do with Jesus who performed these miracles. It was the Sanhedrin who made up the supreme national court. It consisted of seventy-one members, originating, according to the Rabbis, with seventy elders, with Moses at their head. (Numbers 11:24). It's sitting were held in the "stone chamber" in the temple precincts.

Joh 11:48 If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation. They were afraid that if they did nothing about it, that soon everyone would believe in Him and not their teachings. They were also worried about the Roman army coming to destroy their Temple and nation if they lost their influence and power towards the people. You see, the Sadducees and Pharisees rarely agreed on anything. But here they were going to join forces to oppose Jesus. (Kind of like the Republicans and Democrats deciding to vote for the same thing). Even though the Romans ruled over the nation, they left many things up to the Sanhedrin. (The ruling Jewish council).

Joh 11:49 And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Caiaphas, the high priest at the time, said, "You don't know what your talking about." (Caiaphas had a better plan; or could it have been God's plan)? 

Joh 11:50 Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. Caiaphas goes on to say; "Don't you realize that it's better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed."

Joh 11:51 And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation; The Jews regarded any official utterance of the High Priest as inspired. Here Caiaphas was used by God, as Balaam was (Numbers 22:38, Acts 2:23, Acts 4:27-28).

Joh 11:52 And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad. Not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world. (Ezekiel 11:16-17, Ezekiel 34:12, Ephesians 2:14-17, James 1:1, 1 Peter 1:1). i.e. Jesus would not die only for the Jews, but for the whole world. (Jews and Gentiles alike).

Joh 11:53 Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death. So, from that time on, the Jewish leaders began to plot the death of Jesus. This raising Lazarus form the dead was really over the top for the Jewish leaders, and they did not like it. How could they compete with something like this? (To keep their influence and power over the people, their choice was to kill Jesus).

Joh 11:54 Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples. From this point on, Jesus stopped His public ministry with the people and left Jerusalem. He went to the wilderness, to a village of Ephraim (meaning double fruitfulness), about 12 miles north of Jerusalem). There He would spend the rest of His time with the disciples, and not the crowds. Note: Ephraim was also the name of one of the Tribes of Israel. The tribe of Manasseh, together with Ephraim, formed the "House of Joseph." Also note: Many scholars believe that Ephraim represents (Great Britain), and Manasseh represents (the United States).

Joh 11:55 And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves. Almost time for the Jewish Passover celebration. Many people arrived in Jerusalem from all over the country several days early to go through the purification ceremony. (Exodus 12:11-14, Numbers 9:6).

Joh 11:56 Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast? The people were looking for Jesus (especially the Jewish leaders), but the people gossiped among each other. "He won't come to the Passover, will He?"

Joh 11:57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he were, he should shew it, that they might take him. Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees publically ordered that anyone who had seen Jesus must report it to them so they could arrest Him. You know what they really wanted. "They wanted to kill Him."

John 12

Joh 12:1 Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead. Six days before the Passover Jesus arrived in Bethany at the home of Lazarus. (i.e. on the ninth day of Nisan; our Thursday sunset to Friday sunset).

Joh 12:2 There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. A dinner was prepared in honor of Jesus. Martha served, and Lazarus was there. (This was the first of three suppers, it was on Saturday evening, at the close of the Sabbath, on the tenth day of Nisan).

Joh 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. Mary anointed the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. (Spikenard is a highly romantic plant growing in India, whence was made a very valuable unguent or perfume, used at the ancient baths and feasts). Three anointings are recorded in the Gospels. (Keep in mind that the number "three" means divine perfection).

Joh 12:4 Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him, Judas Iscariot questions the use of the expensive ointment.

Joh 12:5 Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? The perfume was worth a year's wages Judas argues, it should have been sold and the money given to the poor.

Joh 12:6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein. Judas didn't really care for the poor, he was a thief. (He was also in charge of the disciples money which he often stole some for himself). Judas' problems started with his greed. (1 Timothy 6:9-10).

Joh 12:7 Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this. Leave her alone Jesus replies; "She did this in preparation for My burial." (Matthew 26:13). This woman will always be remembered for what she has done throughout the whole world, wherever the the Good News is preached. You can bet that this woman was guided by the "Holy Spirit" for this anointing. She was the only one who came forward at that moment to do what needed to be done.

Joh 12:8 For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always. The poor will always be among you, but you will not always have Me Christ would say. He was not saying that He did not care for the poor, or that we should not help them. (He was explaining why Mary's worship was so important). "He would be crucified within a few weeks."

Joh 12:9 Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead. When the people heard that Jesus had arrived, they flocked to see Him and Lazarus who He raised from the dead. (Did these people really come to seek Jesus, or to see the end result of the miracle)? We are to be led to Jesus, not the miracles. (Put your faith in the source).

Joh 12:10 But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death; Since there was so much attention on Jesus and Lazarus, they wanted to kill Lazarus too.

Joh 12:11 Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus. They wanted to kill Lazarus because many of the people deserted and believed in Jesus. Why? Because Jesus raised him from the dead, and that was an awesome miracle that got the peoples attention. (God used Lazarus as a witness to lead many to Christ). God uses whom ever He wills to get His message across. (He may be using you).

Joh 12:12 On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, There were crowds of people from all over who went to the annual Passover feast when they heard that Jesus was attending. (i.e. the forth day before Passover, the 11th day of Nisan). "Our Saturday sunset to Sunday sunset."

Joh 12:13 Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. The people took palm branches and went down the road to meet Him. They shouted "Hosanna," "Blessed is the King of Israel." "The One who comes in the name of the Lord." (Psalm 118:25-26, Matthew 21:9-11, Mark 11:8-10, Luke 19:35-38). 

Joh 12:14 And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Jesus sat upon the donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy of (Zechariah 9:9), the first advent. The second advent won't be so humble. (Zechariah 9:10, Revelation 19:11-16), Christ's second advent and His return. His army is coming! The horses represent the vehicles the army of Christ will arrive upon. His mouth is a two edge sword. (Revelation 1:16). Striking down the nations with power and He will rule them with an iron grip. This wrath is only against His enemies, not His people. The one and only "King of Kings, and Lord of Lord's."

Joh 12:15 Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. "Fear not people of Jerusalem, your King is coming, riding on a donkey's colt."

Joh 12:16 These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him. At the time the disciples did not understand that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. But, after Jesus entered into His glory (at the crucifixion and resurrection), they remembered what had happened and realized that these things were written about Him. (It wasn't till after the fact that the disciples finally got it).

Joh 12:17 The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record. The word was around that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, and people were telling others about it. 

Joh 12:18 For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle. That was the reason so many went out to meet Jesus, because they heard of this miraculous sign.  

Joh 12:19 The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him. Now that so many of the people were following Jesus, they knew that they had a problem on their hands. (After all, they were leaving the churches to follow the truth). "You know what happens when you follow the truth." It sets you free! (Maybe it is time for you to take a good look at your church and make a change). If you have a good church and Pastor that teaches the full Gospel truth, leaving out all the traditions of men, then stick with them. But, if they follow traditions of men, church doctrines, and rules that keep you in bondage, you might want to search for another church and teacher. (If you really believe in God and work at the Word, He will lead you to the truth).

Joh 12:20 And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: (This was the third day before the Passover, 12th of Nisan, our Sunday sunset to Monday sunset). These were "Hellenes." i.e. Gentiles, not Greek-speaking Jews, or Grecians. (Acts 6:1, Acts 9:29). They would worship in the outer court of the Temple, called the Court of the Gentiles. (Revelation 11:2). They would not be allowed to eat the Passover, unless they were proselytes. (Converts to the Jewish religion). (Exodus 12:48).

Joh 12:21 The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. They paid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. "Can we meet Jesus they asked?"

Joh 12:22 Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus. Philip told Andrew what they had requested, and they went together to ask Jesus.

Joh 12:23 And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. It was getting close to the crucifixion, when Jesus would enter into His glory. That "special hour" is why Jesus had come. (Matthew 25:31). We as Christians have a special hour of our own in the near future. (Matthew 10:19-20). But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. (Matthew 10:19). We are speaking about the hour of temptation. (Revelation 17:12). Spoken of in (Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21). Christians have a purpose to be a testimony for Christ and against Satan. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. (Matthew 10:20). At the right time the "Holy Spirit" will speak through you. (Mark 13:11). Will you stand for Christ when the hour comes?

Joh 12:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. Here is a truth from Jesus. Unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But because it dies, it becomes a new sprout through germination and will produce many grains of wheat. (A plentiful harvest of new lives). It may appear that Jesus is giving us a principle that only applies to Himself, but as we read on we will find that this same principle applies to all of us.

Joh 12:25 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. (Matthew 10:39, 16:25). Life here is your soul or self. Your security should be in the doctrine, not in the world. Are you priorities with God, or of the world? In other words, we need to be careful that we do not cling to things in this world that are going to affect our eternal life with Christ in the world to come. (A good example of this would be Lot in the book of Genesis). The city of Sodom was kind of a booming metropolis that had every sort of sinful pleasure a person could want. (Kind of like Las Vegas today). Lot first lived close to Sodom, then he moved to Sodom. God warned Lot to flee from Sodom because of the judgment that was coming, but Lot was a bit reluctant. Finally he left when the angels dragged him out. However, when Lot and his family were leaving, Lot's wife had a hard time with letting go of the Sodom life style and turned back for a final look. Big mistake! "She was turned to a pillar of salt." (Luke 17:32-33). Cling to your life in the ways of this world and you will lose it, and if you let your life go, you will save it. (Matthew 16:25, Mark 8:35-37, John 12:25, Revelation 2:10). Make a stand against antichrist and the ways of the world. "This is Satan's party for now, but not for long."

Joh 12:26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour. To be a true disciple of Christ you must follow Him and His ways. "Not the ways of the world." (If you serve Christ, you will be honored by the Heavenly Father). 

Joh 12:27 Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. My souls is deeply troubled. Should I pray to save Me from this hour? This is the very reason I came. But, what hour is He speaking of here? (Mark 14:35-36). There will be an hour of temptation, when the cup of wrath of God will be poured out. Christ did not want to prevent the crucifixion like many believe. He wanted to know if there was some other way. (Isaiah 51:17-22). "A one time event never to take place again."

Joh 12:28 Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again. "Father, bring glory to your name." Then a voice came form heaven, "I have already brought glory to My name, and I will do it again." The Father's name was glorified in the wilderness by the Son's victory over the "tempter." (Luke 4:1-13). The Father's name was about to be glorified again by the final victory over Satan, in the contest beginning in Gethsemane and ending at the empty tomb. 

Joh 12:29 The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him. The crowd heard the voice and some thought it was thunder, while others thought it was an angel who spoke to Him. "They heard the sound, but could not distinguish what it was or where it came from."

Joh 12:30 Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. The sound of thunder was for the benefit of the people. (A warning sign if you will).

Joh 12:31 Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. At this moment is the crisis of this world: i.e. the crisis reached when the world pronounced judgment against Christ and His claims. Now the ruler of this world (Satan), be thrust outside: i.e. Satan as prince of this world (kosmos, appendix 129.1) three times, here, (John 14:30, 16:11), as prince of the demons in (Matthew 12:24, Mark 3:22), and is the prince of the power of the air in (Ephesians 2:2). The same word used in (Revelation 1:5), of the Lord. The prince of this world was a well known Rabbinical term (Sar-ha-olam, prince of the age) for Satan, "the angel" as they say, "into whose hands the whole world is delivered." Even though Satan is still the "prince of this world" at this time, he meets his final destiny in (Revelation 20:10). However, the actual victory over Satan took place at the cross when Christ defeated death. (Hebrews 2:14-15). Just as God's children are human beings, Christ came in the flesh like us humans so He could die and break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. (Isaiah 25:8, Hosea 13:14, 1 Corinthians 15:54-55, 2 Timothy 1:10).     

Joh 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. "When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to Me." (Salvation open to all peoples). "Lifted up" is "hupsoo" Strong's G5312 meaning to elevate, exalt, lift up. (Occurs twenty times and always refers to the cross).

Joh 12:33 This he said, signifying what death he should die. He said this to indicate how He was going to die.

Joh 12:34 The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man? The people are saying here that they understood from the scriptures that the Messiah would live forever. But, Christ is saying that He is going to die. They were a little confused at this.

Joh 12:35 Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. Jesus told them, "My light will shine for you a little longer." (John 7:33). Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness (Satan), will not overtake you. (Ephesians 5:8, 5:14-15). Those who live in darkness (ways of the world under control of Satan), cannot see where they are going. (John 11:10, Proverbs 4:19, 1 John 2:8-11). Also, if you follow Satan and his ways, the true light will blind you of the truth. God will let you believe the lies. (2 Thessalonians 2:11).

Joh 12:36 While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them. "Put your trust in the Light while there is still time; believe in the light, then you become children of the light." (After Jesus spoke these things He departed, and this would be the last time that He would be out in the public).

Joh 12:37 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: Despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in Him. (John 1:11). Even His own people rejected Him and would not believe. (So, don't be so surprised or upset when friends and family do not listen to you).

Joh 12:38 That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet predicted. Quoted from (Isaiah 53:1).

Joh 12:39 Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, But, the people could not believe. Why?

Joh 12:40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. There eyes would be blinded and their hearts hardened that they should not see or understand. Quoted from (Isaiah 6:9-10). Also written in (Matthew 13:14, Acts 28:26-27, Romans 11:8). Here it is, the spirit of slumber, written here and in the old testament. (Isaiah 29:10). "To this day He has shut their eyes so they do not see, and closed their ears so they do not hear." (Do not let some man or woman close your eyes and ears to the truth with a bunch of nonsense).

Joh 12:41 These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah's glory. (Isaiah 6:1-5).

Joh 12:42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: Many of the people believed in Him, including some of the Jewish leaders. But, they would not admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. "To be a true believer, you must confess with your mouth and believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead." (Romans 10:9-10). "We must also share our relationship with others." (Luke 6:45). However, we must be really carful not to deny Christ in front of people. (Matthew 10:32-33). Plant the seed and bring forth the testimony of Jesus Christ and you will do fine. But, those teaching false religion and traditions of men will not do so well. (Christ will deny them before the Father). He will say to them: "I never knew you!" (Matthew 7:23).

Joh 12:43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. Those who deny Christ, teaching false religion and traditions of men, love human praise more than the praise form God.

Joh 12:44 Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me. Jesus shouted to the crowds, "If you trust Me, you are trusting also in the Father who sent Me." (Matthew 10:40, Mark 9:37, 1 Peter 1:21). "Christ is the manifestation of the Father." (Materialized form of the Spirit).

Joh 12:45 And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me. When you see Christ, you see the Heavenly Father. (Colossians 1:15). Christ being in the exact likeness of God. Christ was before any other creature. "Emmanuel," God with us.

Joh 12:46 I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. Christ is the light of the world. Put your trust in Jesus and you will not walk in darkness. (John 8:12).

Joh 12:47 And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. i.e. Jesus did not come to judge people and send them to hell, His purpose was to come and save people from hell. (John 3:17, Luke 19:10, 1 John 4:14). 

Joh 12:48 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. But, all who reject Jesus and His message will be judged on the day of judgment. (Romans 2:16, 2 Thessalonians 1:8). What day? The Lords day; when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone's secret life. "You can't hide anything from God and we will all stand before Him at judgment day." (Revelation 20:11-15).

Joh 12:49 For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak. This was not spoken by the authority of Christ, but rather from the Heavenly Father who has commanded Christ what to say and how to say it. (His very words were what the Father had given Him to speak). (John 3:34, 7:16-18, 8:28, 8:47, 14:10, 14:24, 17:8, 17:14).

Joh 12:50 And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak. "Christ is saying that the Fathers commands lead to eternal life; so He says whatever the Father tells Him to say." (1 John 3:23, 5:11). Through the Word of God (His record), God has given us eternal life through Christ. "Study to show yourself approved, and without shame, eternal life will be yours." (2 Timothy 2:15).

John 13

Joh 13:1 Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. It was just before the Passover celebration, (the preparation day, the 14th day of Nisan, our Tuesday sunset to Wednesday sunset, the day of the Crucifixion). Jesus knew that His hour had come to leave this world and return to His Father. While Jesus was here on earth He loved His disciples and now He loved them to the very end. (Just as He loves you, and will love you unconditionally, to the very end).

Joh 13:2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him; This would be the last supper that we are talking about. (Satan had already prompted Judas to betray Jesus).

Joh 13:3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; Jesus knew that the Heavenly Father had given Him authority over everything, and that He had come from God and would return to God. "These statements of His Divine origin, authority, and coming glory, are made so as to enhance the amazing condescension of the service to which He humbled Himself to do the office of bond-slave." (1 Corinthians 15:27, Ephesians 1:21-22, Philippians 2:9-11, Hebrews 1:2, Hebrews 2:8-9).

Joh 13:4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. Jesus got up from the table, took off His robe, and wrapped a towel around His waist. Why? (This was preparation for the foot washing). He tied the towel around Him so that He might have it ready to dry the disciples feet, and that He might appear as a servant. (Indeed the whole action was a servile one; and never performed by a superior to an inferior). Shows that we can humble ourselves towards others as true Christians. (We are here to serve others under Christ).

Joh 13:5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Poured the water into a basin, then began to wash the disciples feet, drying them with the towel He had around Him. 

Joh 13:6 Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" (Jesus is taking on the role of servant, and Peter knows that just doesn't seem right to him).

Joh 13:7 Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Jesus explained to Peter, "You don't understand now what I am doing, but someday you will." (Just as Christians, we don't always understand what the Lord is doing). However, we will all understand when He wants us to know, and all will be clear in the end.  

Joh 13:8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. "No," Peter says, "You will never wash my feet." Jesus replies, "If I don't wash your feet, you will not belong to Me." Reference to: (Hebrews 10:22). We can go into the very presence of God with sincere hearts as believers. Fully trusting Him, because our guilty consciences have been sprinkled clean with the blood of Christ, and washed (baptized), with pure water. (Matthew 3:11, Ephesians 5:26, 1 Peter 3:21). The reason Jesus washed the feet of the disciples was not only an example to us to be servants to one another, but to show us that when you walk through this world, you are going to get dirty with sin. (Just as their feet got dirty walking the streets of Jerusalem back then). We are made clean through the blood of Christ upon repentance. (Revelation 7:14). These are the ones who hung in there through the tribulation and were not deceived by Satan. (They didn't count on flying-away with false rapture doctrine). They did the work they were supposed to do, and they washed their robes with the blood of the Lamb which is Christ.  

Joh 13:9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Peter is thinking that he doesn't want to be apart from Jesus after what He said, so he wants a full bath. (He thinks he needs to be totally washed from sin). "Peter didn't get it." (Jesus will explain). 

Joh 13:10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. Jesus replied, "A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. You disciples are clean, but not all of you." (Note the distinction between washing the whole body, and only washing part of it). In those days, people would take a bath before attending the Passover. But, on the way their feet would get dirty and this would be why they washed their feet when visiting a house. In other words, the way it applies to us is that when a person comes to believe in Christ, there is a full cleansing. Kind of like when you become baptized. (2 Corinthians 5:17). You’re a new creature, with a new frame of mind. (One to serve the living God). The old life is gone and a new life begins. However, in our day to day lives we get a little dirty with sin. So, you don't need to be saved every time you stumble, but rather you just need to repent. (1 John 1:9). If we confess our sins to Him (not some man), we can count on God to wash away all our sins, because Christ became that one time sacrifice for our sins.     

Joh 13:11 For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. Jesus knew who would betray Him. That is why He would say, "not all of you are clean."

Joh 13:12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? When Jesus was done washing the disciples feet, He put His robe back on and asked them, "Do you understand what I was doing?" Remember what Jesus said earlier in verse seven, that they would not understand now, but would later. "Now He is going to explain to them in detail."

Joh 13:13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. You call Me Teacher and Lord and you are right because that is what I am.

Joh 13:14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. Since I, your Lord has washed your feet, you should wash each others feet. Is Jesus talking about going through a foot washing ceremony with others like many churches do. "Not at all." He is talking about humbling yourself and serving one another. (Philippians 2:2-5). Don't only think of yourself and be on an ego trip trying to impress others. Rather be humble and think of others as better than yourself. Don't only think of things that interest you, but take an interest in others also. Try to have the same attitude that Christ had. (It would be a wonderful world if we could all have the mind of Christ).

Joh 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Christ has give us an example to follow. (Ephesians 5:2, 1 Peter 2:21, 1 John 2:6). Anyone who says they are a Christian should try to live as Christ did. This word (abideth), is to (dwell with Him). The walk of Christ is perfect, but we not. We are always going to sin at times and Christ knows it. He just wants us to hang with Him as you would a good friend, and He will set the example. We just need to do our best to follow.

Joh 13:16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. Here comes a truth, "slaves are not greater than their master." The messenger (Jesus), is no more important than the One who sends the message. (The Heavenly Father). (Matthew 10:24-25, Luke 6:40). Applying to us, the student cannot know more than his teacher. But, if he works hard, he matures and can learn as much. 

Joh 13:17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. Now that you know these things, God will bless you for doing them. (There is a condition here). You may know the things of God, but if you do not do them, then you will not receive His blessings. (James 4:17). i.e. If you know better and do wrong it is a sin. If you did not know, then that is forgivable. God is not out to punish you, He is longing that all will come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9).

Joh 13:18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me. I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. However, this fulfills the scripture that says; "The one who eats My food will turn against Me." Quoting from (Psalms 41:9), written 1,000 years earlier. (He was speaking of Judas). Sometimes the ones closes to you will turn against you. It happened to King David in (2 Samuel 15), and He writes about it in (Psalm 55:12-14), a cry against deceitful friends. (You have one friend that won't turn against you). "Jesus Christ."

Joh 13:19 Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he. I tell you this now so you won't be surprised, and when it happens, you will believe that I AM the Messiah. (Jesus knew the disciples would be shocked when they find out the one who would betray Jesus was Judas, one of their own).

Joh 13:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. I tell you a truth, anyone who welcomes My messenger (sent one), is welcoming Me, and anyone who welcomes Me is welcoming the Father who sent Me. (Matthew 10:40-41). The Doctrine, The Truth, The living Word. "Jesus Christ." Do you receive the prophets or teachers of God? When you do, you receive the same blessing as they receive.

Joh 13:21 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. Jesus was troubled by what He was about to say, but He said it. "I tell you a truth, one of you will betray Me."

Joh 13:22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake. The disciples wondered who He was talking about. (Luke 22:23).

Joh 13:23 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table. Who was it? John was in the favored position, on the Lord's right hand. However, Judas sat on His left side.

Joh 13:24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. Simon Peter motioned to John to ask, "Who's He talking about?"

Joh 13:25 He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it? So, John leaned over to Jesus and asked, "Lord, who is it?"

Joh 13:26 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. Jesus tells him, "It is the one who I will give the bread I dip in the bowl." Jesus dipped the bread in the bowl and gave it to Judas. (It was a mark of honor for the host to give a portion to one of the guests). The Lord had appealed to the conscience of Judas in verse 21, now He appeals to his heart.

Joh 13:27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly. As soon as Judas ate the bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus told him, "Hurry and do what you're going to do." (Luke 22:3). Up to this point, Judas had been possesses by the evil thought, now he is obsessed by the evil one himself. Therefore the Lord knew what had taken place, and that further appeal to his heart was useless. "Satan had already put into Judas, a heart to betray Jesus in verse two." (Judas rejected Jesus, and his love turned to Satan). "Don't ever test the power of Satan."

Joh 13:28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him. No one else at the table knew what Jesus had said.

Joh 13:29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor. This was the beginning at the close of Passover, when the high day, 15th of Nisan, began. Judas was the treasurer, and some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food, or give some money to the poor.

Joh 13:30 He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night. So Judas left at once, going out into the night. (He was going to finish what he had to do). (Proverbs 4:16, Isaiah 59:7, Romans 3:15).

Joh 13:31 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him. As soon as Judas left the room, Jesus said, "The time has come for the Son of Man to enter into His glory, and God will be glorified because of Him."

Joh 13:32 If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him. Since God receives glory because of the Son, He will soon give glory to the Son. (Jesus came to die and Judas' betrayal was what brought that about).

Joh 13:33 Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you. Jesus is telling them that He will be with them only a little longer. You will search for Me, but you can't come where I am going. Written back in (John 8:21-22). The disciples were just as clueless as the Jewish leaders about where He was going.

Joh 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. A commandment straight from Jesus. "Love one another as I have loved you." (One of God's greatest commandments). (1 John 5:1, 2 John 1:5).

Joh 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. It is your love for one another that will prove to the world you are My disciples.  

Joh 13:36 Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter asked Jesus where it was that He was going? Jesus replied, "You can't go with Me now, but you will follow Me later." (2 Peter 1:14).

Joh 13:37 Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake. Why can't I come now Peter asked? "I am ready to die for you." (I don't think so). 

Joh 13:38 Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice. Jesus answers Peter, Die for Me? "I'll tell you another truth Peter; before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know Me." (Matthew 26:34-35). Christ told Peter straight up that this very night, he would deny Him three times. Do you think that would have offended Peter? Of course it did. "I would die first" Peter insisted, and all the other apostles said the same thing. (Never make a promise you can't keep, or have no control over). I am sure all the apostles had good intensions, but at times the flesh becomes so weak that you cannot control the end result. "To die for someone is quite a bold statement that many could not keep." Christ did it; "but we are not Christ."

John 14

Joh 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. Jesus knew that the disciples hearts were troubled after what He had just said about Peter, and He wanted to comfort them. "He tells them not to let their hearts (souls), be troubled." (Trust in God, and trust in Me also). He was leading up to what would happen after His crucifixion. (Ephesians 1:12-13, 3:14-17, 1 John 2:23-24). Because of what Christ would do, all those who heard the Good News about how to be saved, and trusted Christ, were marked as belonging to Christ by the Hole Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that seals all those promises.

Joh 14:2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. Plenty of room in My Father's house. I will go and prepare a place for you. This word "mansions" in the Greek is "mone" (mon-ay'), residence (the act or place): abode. Meaning to dwell within us. (2 Corinthians 5:1, Revelation 3:12). When this earthly body is gone, we will have our spiritual body for eternity. (1 Corinthians 15:46-48). The natural body comes first, the spiritual comes later. (For now, in this flesh body, Christ will dwell in our hearts through the Holy Spirit).

Joh 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. When everything is ready, I will come again and receive you. This word "receive" in the Greek is "paralambano" to receive, that is to "associate with, or to have a relationship with you," so that you will always be with Me. (John 12:26).

Joh 14:4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Christ is telling them "you know the way to where I am going." (The way to eternal life). You should know it, it is written: (John 3:16-17, John 3:36, John 6:40). It is the Heavenly Father's will that all who "see" His Son and "believe" in Him should have eternal life. "Jesus Christ will raise them up in the last day." The key words here are "see" and "believe." Do you have the eyes to "see" the truth? Do you "believe" in the one true Christ?

Joh 14:5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Thomas tells Jesus, "we have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?" (Thomas didn't get it, but at least he was honest about it).

Joh 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Jesus couldn't make it any clearer than this statement: "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no one comes to the Father except through Me." (Christ shows us the way through example). "He gives us the truth through the Word of God." (He gives us eternal life because He defeated death at the crucifixion).

Joh 14:7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. If you had really known Me, you know who My Father is. Now you will know Him and have seen Him. This word "known" in the Greek is "ginosko" to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of, to perceive. i.e. (You can know someone without really knowing about them). You would think these disciples really "know" Jesus after spending so much time with Him, but because they didn't quite understand the relationship between Jesus and the Father, they really didn't "know" Him as well as they should.

Joh 14:8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Phillip still wanted a little more proof. He say to Jesus, "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied." (Phillip still didn't get it). Still blind to full understanding.

Joh 14:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? Jesus tells Philip, "I have been with you all this time, and yet you still do not know who I am?" Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. So, why are you asking Me to show Him to you? These guys seen it and could not believe it. How much more is the Heavenly Father going to love and reward you for believing without seeing.

Joh 14:10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Jesus goes on to ask Phillip, "Don't you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?" The words I speak are not My own, but My Father who lives in Me does His work through Me. Just as Father works through us using the Holy Spirit as our guide. Have you ever shared a truth with someone and the right words just seemed to come out, so that the person understood exactly what you were saying. This is the "Holy Spirit" working through you. 

Joh 14:11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake. Believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. At least believe because of the works (miracles), you have seen Me do. (Jesus is addressing all the disciples here).

Joh 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. Here is another truth Jesus wants us all to know. Anyone who believes in Me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father. First off, how could the disciples, or us today, do greater works than Jesus? Especially when He was going to be with the Father. We need to go forward a few chapters to John 16, where it says: Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (John 16:7). The key here is that He sends the "Holy Spirit" to help the disciples as well as us. Now with the help of the Holy Spirit, we are greater in number. Just look at the formats we have today to spread His Word. Radio, television, book publications, the internet etc. Jesus said it Himself in the book of Acts. But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. (Acts 1:8). The disciples as well as us today, have power to be His witnesses and to preach The Good News with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Joh 14:13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. Ask anything in My name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father. John would better explain this in (1 John 3:22, 1 John 5:14). If you please God and keep His commandments, He will please you. We can be sure that God will listen to us whenever we ask for anything in line with His will. (Ask for things of the spirit, or wisdom to help you in teaching His Word). "God loves that more than anything else."

Joh 14:14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. Again, ask for anything in My name, and I will do it! (Remember to ask in Jesus name, that is the key here).

Joh 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. The condition is, that if you love Jesus, you will keep His commandments. (1 John 2:3-4, 1 John 5:3). Loving God means doing what He tells us to do. His commandments are the truth, and the truth shall set you free. Never let anyone put you in bondage with their rules, regulations, and traditions of men.

Joh 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Jesus gives us the opportunity to receive the Holy Spirit (Comforter), who will never leave us. The "Holy Spirit" another part (or office) of Christ. (1 John 2:1). John was telling us this so we would stay away from sin. But if we sin, we have someone to plead for our sins which is Jesus Christ. All of us will sin at times in these flesh bodies, and we must repent.

Joh 14:17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. It is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world in general (non-believers), cannot receive Him, because it is not looking for Him, and they do not recognize Him. Now Jesus goes on to say to the disciples, "You know Him because He lives with you now and later will be in you." He was speaking of Himself and His office of the "Holy Spirit." The "Trinity of God if you will." (We have the Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit), the full God head. "This Spirit of truth would be poured out on Pentecost Day." (1 John 2:27). When you dwell in the light which is Christ, the Holy Spirit will teach you all things when it comes to discerning truth. Don't listen to any man or woman who is contrary to God's Word.

Joh 14:18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Jesus will come to us and live in us as the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:20, Hebrews 13:5). Except and obey Christ; be satisfied with what He has given you, and He will always be with you.

Joh 14:19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. Soon the world will not see Me. The crucifixion was very near. From the moment the Lord was taken down from the cross and entombed, He disappeared from the eyes of the world. (Acts 10:40-41). The Heavenly Father bringing Him back to life again and showed Him to certain people. (God only showed Him to certain witnesses He had chosen before).

Joh 14:20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. After being raised to life again, Jesus was in the Father, and we are in Him, and He is in us. (Jesus is showing the closeness that we can have with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, as believers).

Joh 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Here is the condition Jesus would explain. Those who accept His commandments and obey them are the ones who love Him. Because they love Jesus, the Heavenly Father will love them. (Jesus loves us for this, and will reveal Himself to each of us).

Joh 14:22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? One of the disciples named Judas (not Judas Iscariot), asked Jesus, Lord, why are you going to reveal Yourself only to us and not the world at large?

Joh 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. Jesus replies, "All who love Me will do as I say." My Father will love them, and we will come and make Our home with each of them. "This gives us an advantage in this world." (1 John 4:4). We have the victory because God is greater than the world, Satan, or any evil teachers in this wicked world.

Joh 14:24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. Anyone who does not love Jesus will not obey Him. This comes straight from the Heavenly Father.

Joh 14:25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. I am telling you these things while I am still with you. 

Joh 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. But, when the Father sends the Comforter (Holy Spirit), as a representative, He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. The office of the "Holy Spirit." (Matthew 12:32, Mark 3:29, 12:36, 13:11, Luke 2:26, 3:22, Acts 1:16, 5:3, 5:32).

Joh 14:27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Jesus would leave us at this time with a special gift. The gift of "peace of mind" that the world cannot give. Christ is "The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6). So, He is telling us not to be troubled or afraid. (John 14:1). "No need to fear when Christ is on your side."

Joh 14:28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. I told you before that I must leave and go to the Father. But, I will come back to you again. If you really love Me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. i.e. The Lord was not inferior as to His essential being, but as to His office, as sent by the Father. (1 Corinthians 15:27, Philippians 2:9-11). 

Joh 14:29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. I have told you these things before they even happen, so that when they do happen, you will believe. Warning us even about the end times when false messiahs and prophets will rise. (Matthew 24:24-25). 

Joh 14:30 Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me. I don't have much more time to talk to you, Jesus tells the disciples. Because the ruler of this world approaches, but he has no power over Me. Who is the ruler of this world? Satan! Christ broke the power of death which is Satan. (2 Timothy 1:10, Hebrews 2:14).

Joh 14:31 But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence. I will do what the Father requires of Me, so the world will know I love the Father. This was the end of the "Last Supper," and Jesus leaves the room as the disciples follow.

John 15

Joh 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Christ is the true vine, and the Heavenly Father is the gardener. The vine speaks of Israel's temporal and spiritual blessings (Psalm 80, Isaiah 5). That vine failed. Henceforth there is no blessing for Israel as such till He comes Who is the true Israel (Isaiah 49:3), as He is the true vine. Then shall (Isaiah 27:6), be fulfilled. The interpretation of this passage is for Israel alone, though many blessed lessons may be drawn from it, by way of application. 

Joh 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. He cuts off every branch of Mine that does not produce fruit, and He prunes the branches that bear fruit so that they will produce even more. i.e. if you do not learn anything, or care about the Word, you will be cut off like the branch that does not bear fruit. If you study the Word and care enough to learn the truth, God will teach you more, and give you better understanding of the Word, so you will produce more good fruit, just like the pruned branch. 

Joh 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Jesus is saying here that the disciples have already been pruned from the things they have learned from Him. Pruned with the Word of truth, right from Christ.

Joh 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. Remain in Me and I will remain in you. A branch cannot produce fruit if it has been severed from the vine. So, you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in Me. i.e. You must stay in Christ and follow His teachings if you want to produce good fruit.

Joh 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. Christ is saying here, "I am the vine; you are the branches." Those who remain in Me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. Apart from Me, you can do nothing. (Colossians 1:10). Honor the Lord in the way you live, always doing good and kind things for others. Learning from God the truth in the Word so that we can share it with others.  

Joh 15:6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. Anyone who does not remain in Me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. (These branches are gathered in a pile to be burned). Referring to the second death: (Revelation 20:15, Revelation 21:8). It is the second death to those who enter the lake of fire. (Revelation 20:14, Matthew 10:28). "Only God can destroy your soul." Your soul is yourself. The spirit is the intellect of the soul. (Destroy #622 in the Strong's is to perish). God can blot you out as though you never existed, just as Satan is sentenced to perish. Once the anointed cherub that guarded the mercy seat of God; "He will perish forever." (Ezekiel 28:14-19).

Joh 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Here comes the condition. "If you remain in Jesus and His Words remain in you, you can ask for anything you want, and it will be granted." (Galatians 5:16, 1 John 3:22, 1 John 5:14). We can be sure that God will listen to us whenever we ask for anything in line with His will. (Ask for things of the spirit, or wisdom to help you in teaching His Word). "God loves that."

Joh 15:8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. When we produce good fruit, we are true disciples of Christ. This brings great joy and glory to the Heavenly Father. Good fruit can be many different things according to one's ability, and the gifts that God has given you. (1 Peter 4:11). If you have the gift of speaking, speak as if God were speaking through you. If you have the gift of helping others, do it with the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring Glory to God through Jesus Christ, all the Glory and power to Him forever and ever. Amen.

Joh 15:9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. Christ is telling us here that He has loved us as the Father has loved Him. He wants us to remain in His love. (Ephesians 3:17-19). Able to comprehend how great His love really is towards us.

Joh 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. Here is another condition: Obey His commandments and you remain in His love. What commandments? The ten commandments! They still apply to us today. (1 John 5:3). Loving God means doing what He tells us to do. His commandments are the truth and the truth shall set you free. Never let anyone put you in bondage with their rules, regulations, and traditions of men.

Joh 15:11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with joy. Follow Christ, the "Living Word of God," and your life will be overflowed with Joy.

Joh 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. One of Christ's greatest commandments: "Love one another like Christ loves us." (1 John 3:23, 1 John 4:21). Probably one of the hardest commandments to keep in this world today. The love for fellow man is slowly fading away.

Joh 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friend. Christ laid down His life for us, because we are His friend. (John 10:11, John 10:15, Romans 5:6-8, Ephesians 5:2, 1 John 4:7-11). The key here is to treat others like you would like to be treated.

Joh 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Keep the commandments of God and it shows that you are a friend of Jesus. (1 John 5:3, James 2:23).  

Joh 15:15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. This word Servant is "doulos" Strong's #G1401 meaning "a slave" and would read: I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn't confide in His slaves. Now you are My friend, since I confide in you by telling you everything the Father told Me. Now, In (Mark 10:43), Jesus encourages us to embrace the role of a servant. But here, Jesus shows us that our relationship with Him goes beyond servant. "He calls us friend." Just as Abraham was called the friend of God. (James 2:23). It happened just as the scripture said. Abraham trusted God, and God called him His friend. (Isaiah 41:8). 

Joh 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. You didn't choose Me Jesus says; I chose you. I appointed you to produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, in My name. (It was the Jewish custom for a disciple to choose his own teacher). But, the disciples didn't pick Jesus, He picked them. i.e. we as Christians can choose whom we want to listen to and learn from, but when it comes to being called to the ministry, Christ does the calling. Therefore, when you want to further something in the ministry, ask in "Jesus name" and the Heavenly Father will supply what you need.

Joh 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another. One of the most important commandments of God. Love one another as God loves you. Especially your brothers and sisters in Christ. (1 Peter 2:17, 1 John 3:14-17). "Remember the many member body of Christ are all part of your spiritual family."

Joh 15:18 If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. Don't worry if the world hates you, it hated Jesus first. When you teach the truth of the Word as Christ did, the world in general will not like you. So, do not love the ways of the world. (1 John 2:15-16). Stop loving this evil world and all that it offers you. (The rudiments and elements of the world). If you are involved and love the things of this world, this shows that you do not really love God. "Always thinking of money, fame, and material things." (Trying to stay ahead of the other guy no matter what the cost). Watch your priorities. The day of the Lord is coming. (2 Peter 3:10). All the worldly things, evil desires, craze for sex, the ambition to buy everything that appeals to you, and the pride that comes from wealth and importance. These things are not of God, but rather from this evil world itself. Remember that the world hated Christ; What are they going to think of you as a true Christian?

Joh 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. The world would love you if you belonged to the world. (If you live for the things of the world). But, you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. "It's your choice." You can be a friend of the world and the enemy of God. (James 4:4). Making friends with the enemies of God and the pleasures of the world makes you an enemy of God. (Genesis 6:5, Romans 1:28-31). However, you can be a friend of God and an enemy to the world. (1 John 3:13). Don't be surprised if the world hates you for teaching the truth. They hated Christ because they could not take the truth, just as so many today. Popular doctrine and traditions of men have nothing to do with God's world. "Only the truth will set you free."

Joh 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. Do you remember what I told you that a slave is not greater than the master? (Matthew 10:24, John 13:16). Since they persecute Me, naturally they will persecute you. (1 Thessalonians 2:15). It was the work of the Kenites who killed Jesus and the prophets. (John 8:44, Revelations 2:9). If they had listened to Me, they would listen to you. (Ezekiel 3:7).

Joh 15:21 But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. They will do all this to you because of Me, for they have rejected the One who sent Me.

Joh 15:22 If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. No excuse! If they never heard the truth from Jesus they would not be guilty. "But, they heard the truth (from God Himself), and just ignored it."

Joh 15:23 He that hateth me hateth my Father also. Anyone who hates Jesus, hates the Heavenly Father also.

Joh 15:24 If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. They seen all the miracles that no one else could do, yet they still hated Jesus, and the Father who sent Him.

Joh 15:25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause. This fulfills what is written in the scriptures. "They hated Me without cause." (Psalm 35:19, Psalm 69:4, Psalm 109:3).

Joh 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: Christ will send us the "Holy Spirit" of truth. He will come from the Father and will testify all about Christ. (Acts 5:32). The Holy Spirit is given to all who obey Him.

Joh 15:27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. You must testify about Me because you have been with Me form the beginning of My ministry. (1 John 1:1-2). They have seen and touched the Word of Life (Jesus Christ), who was from the beginning. Christ was the Word in the beginning. (John 1:1).

John 16

Joh 16:1 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. Jesus was giving a warning and encouragement to the disciples of things to come, and not to abandon their faith. (Matthew 13:21, 13:57, 24:10, 26:31-33).

Joh 16:2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. You will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a service to God. (Matthew 10:28, Matthew 24:9). Many will be tortured, killed, and hated all over the world because of what true Christians believe and stand for. (Many will be delivered up before the antichrist). Many will be betrayed and delivered up by their own family and friends. (However, keep in mind that only God can destroy your soul).

Joh 16:3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. They do these things to you because they have never known Me or the Father. (John 15:21, John 17:25, 1 Corinthians 2:8). The world in general does not know the the truth, and who do the rulers of this world follow? Satan! "He is the main ruler of this world."

Joh 16:4 But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you. Jesus was telling the disciples these things so that when they happened they would remember His warning and be prepared. The world in general will not be prepared. (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12). He will completely fool those who refused the truth of the Word that they might be saved. Those who follow Satan will perish. Once saved always saved? I don't think so! Want to lose your salvation? Just keep following the ways of the devil, never repenting of your sins. If you want to be ignorant of God's Word and follow lies, deception, and traditions of men; God will send you strong delusion to believe those lies. He will close your eyes to the truth. (Isaiah 29:10). Look at how people are so comfortable with false teachings and traditions of men. Comfortable with their spirit of slumber.

Joh 16:5 But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? Christ was telling the disciples He was going to the One who sent Him, but not one of them asked where He was going. (They did not grasp the expediency of His going). So, questioning had given place to sorrow. All else was excluded by the distress caused by "the things" foretold.

Joh 16:6 But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. Instead you grieve because of what I have told you.

Joh 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. Jesus is telling them that in fact; it is best for them that He goes away, because if He didn't, the "Holy Spirit" would not come as promised. (John 14:16-17, 14:26, 15:26).

Joh 16:8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: When the "Holy Spirit" comes, He will convict the world of it's sin, and God's righteousness, and the coming judgment. (1 Corinthians 14:24, Jude 1:15). Judgment day for the ungodly people of the world. (Matthew 12:31-37, Revelation 13:5-6, 13:11). For those who are deceived and follow the antichrist. (Those who receive the beast mark).

Joh 16:9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; What is the worlds sin? It refuses to believe the truth of the Word. The mission of the Holy Spirit was to bring the world in guilty, in regard to three things. Sin: In God's sight sin is refusal to believe the Gospel concerning His Son. (1 John 5:10). The Jews regarded only moral offences (as men do today) and infractions of the ceremonial law and tradition of the elders (Matthew 15:2) as sin. You either believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God or you don't. If you don't, you are calling God a liar. Jesus Christ is written of in the Old Testament and spoken of by the prophets. The crucifixion written by the prophets 1,000 years before it took place. The second is righteousness: Here also God's standard and man's differ. The Jews regarded the punctilious Pharisee (Luke 18:11-12) as ideal. The only righteous One, whose standard was the will of God (John 8:29, Hebrews 10:7), was rejected and crucified. In righteousness He was removed from the earth; the seal of the Father's approval being put upon Him by resurrection. In Him Who is made unto righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30). The divine standard is revealed (Romans 1:17). The third is Judgment: For the prince of this world has been already judged (John 16:11), and sentenced soon to be executed. (Romans 16:20). Our God of peace will soon crush Satan under our feet. (Malachi 4:3, Luke 10:19).

Joh 16:10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Jesus is saying that righteousness is now available, because I go to the Father. (2 Corinthians 5:21, Galatians 5:5). Christ knew no sin, but He was the offering for our sins. (So that we could be made right with God through Christ). As Christians, with the help of the "Holy Spirit," we are counting on Christ's death to clear our sin and make us right with God. We are saved by hope. (Romans 8:24). 

Joh 16:11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. Judgment will come because the ruler of this world (Satan), has already been judged. (Ezekiel 28:18-19). Satan has already been sentenced to death.

Joh 16:12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Christ is telling the disciples that their is much more that He would like to tell them, but they could not bear it now. i.e. "they could not handle the truth at this time."

Joh 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. When the "Spirit of truth comes" (the Holy Spirit), He will guide you into all truth. Our guide into the future. (1 John 2:27). When you dwell in the light which is Christ, the Holy Spirit will teach you all things when it comes to discerning truth. Don't listen to any man or woman who is contrary to God's Word. Also referring to (Acts 2:17-18). The "Holy Spirit" will speak through men and women in the last days. What did Joel say? (Joel 2:28-32). Christ would speak of this same thing Himself when we are delivered up before the antichrist. (Luke 12:10-12).  

Joh 16:14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. The "Holy Spirit" will bring Me glory by telling you whatever He receives from Me. (1 John 5:20). "The one true God."

Joh 16:15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All that belongs to the Father is Mine; this is why I said, "The Spirit will tell you whatever He receives from Me." (Matthew 11:27, Matthew 28:18, Luke 10:22). The Heavenly Father has entrusted everything to Him. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son, and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.  

Joh 16:16 A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. Jesus tells the disciples that in a little while they won't see Him anymore. But, a while after that they will see Him again. We are at the night before Jesus' death, and He is going to give the disciples some last instructions.

Joh 16:17 Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father? The disciples were a little baffled with the words Jesus spoke about His leaving and then returning. 

Joh 16:18 They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith. They were hung up on "a little while," because they didn't understand what He meant. 

Joh 16:19 Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me? Jesus realized they were still confused and wanted to ask Him about it, so He tells them the same thing again, first with a question. "Are you asking yourselves what I meant?" "Then the answer." I said in a while you won't see Me, but "a little while after," you will see Me again.

Joh 16:20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. Here comes another truth. Jesus tells the disciples that they will weep and mourn over His death, but the world in general will rejoice. He goes on to tell the disciples that first they will grieve, but then suddenly their grief will turn to Joy. This word "Joy" is "chara" Strong's #G5479 meaning cheerfulness, calm delight, gladness, full, or fullness. "A deep feeling down inside your soul." You may not feel happy, or your life may be miserable at times, but there is this unexplainable feeling deep down inside that you can still have joy in the Lord. I call it a bubbling in the Spirit. The "Holy Spirit," that brings joy to us because we know Jesus is with us at all times through the Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 1:6, James 1:2, 1 Peter 1:6-8). Be glad because there is a great reward and joy ahead even if you suffer trials for a little while. As a Christian you are going to have many temptations that will come your way. Use your sanctification and power of the spirit to help you through.

Joh 16:21 A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. Jesus explains that it will be like a woman suffering the pains of labor. When her child is born, her anguish gives way to joy because she has brought a new baby into the world. i.e. The death of Jesus would bring pain and sorrow to the disciples, but after the resurrection they saw that His death was necessary to pay for their sins. His death would become a source of joy to them. Also referring to the birth of the new Israel, the nation of (Isaiah 66:8 and Matthew 21:43). 

Joh 16:22 And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. You may have sorrow now Jesus is telling the disciples, but you will see Me again. Then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy. "This is a special joy." (Hebrews 10:34). You suffered with those who were put into jail, and when you lost all that you owned you accepted it with joy. "You knew that better things were coming."

Joh 16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Jesus is telling the disciples "in that day." what day? The day when Jesus returns to the Father and will no longer be with them in the flesh. He tells them another truth; You will ask the Father directly, "in Jesus name," and He will grant your request, because you use My name. (Isaiah 65:24, John 14:13-14, 15:7, 15:16, Matthew 7:7). "Ask anything in accordance with Gods will and it will be yours."

Joh 16:24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. You have never done this before Jesus is telling the disciples. So, ask in My name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. This word "full" is "pleroo" Strong's #G4137 meaning complete, full, perfect. You will be filled with the same joy as Christ. (John 15:11). An overflowing perfect joy.

Joh 16:25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. I have told you these matters in figures of speech (proverbs and illustrations), but the time is comes when I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father. i.e. Jesus realizes that the disciples didn't grasp all the things He had been telling them, but down the road, things will get much clearer. Remember what Christ said to the disciples in (John 16:12), that they could not bear it now. Now, the "Holy Spirit" will make things much clearer. (The Holy Spirit is like a universal translator of truth).

Joh 16:26 At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: Jesus is not saying that He won't pray for us to the Father. (Hebrews 7:25). Jesus lives forever to intercede with God on our behalf. (Romans 8:34, 1 Timothy 2:5, 1 John 2:1-2, Revelation 8:3-4). However, Jesus does not need to relay our prayers to God, the Heavenly Father hears us Himself.

Joh 16:27 For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. The Father loves you because you love Me, and you believe I came form God. (John 3:13, 7:29, 1 Corinthians 15:47, Galatians 4:4).

Joh 16:28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. I came from the Father into the world, now I will leave the world and return to the Father. This was a like a summary of what Christ did for us. He came form Heaven to earth in human flesh; He would die on the cross for our sins by defeating death, then He would rise from the dead and return back to heaven from which He came.

Joh 16:29 His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now it seems that the disciples get it. 

Joh 16:30 Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. Now the disciples understood that Jesus knew all things and that their was no further need to question Him. "From this, they believed that He came from God." (Divine intervention from the Holy Spirit). Their minds were no longer clouded with doubt.

Joh 16:31 Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? Jesus asked the disciples, "Do you finally believe?"

Joh 16:32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. Now Jesus lays something else on the disciples that they probably didn't want to hear. "The time is coming and is here now when all of you will be scattered, going your own ways, leaving Me alone." Jesus goes on to say; yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. (Zechariah 13:7, Matthew 26:31, 26:56, Mark 14:27).

Joh 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. Jesus tells the disciples (as well as us), "I have told you all this so that you will have peace in Me." (Peace of mind). Jesus goes on to say that here on earth we will have many trials and sorrows. But not to worry, because He has overcome the world. We can have victory over the world because of Christ. (Romans 8:37, Galatians 1:4, 6:14, 1 John 4:4, 5:4). God is greater than the world, Satan, or any evil teachers in this wicked world. (Hebrews 2:14). We are to be over-comers in the world, defeating sin by trusting in Christ to help us. That is what faith is, and without it, it is impossible to please God.

Keep The Faith,
Barton