The Bible Journey Daily Podcast

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The Real Lords Prayer - Part One - Jesus Prays For Himself (John 17: 1-5) Aug 06, 2024

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Episode Notes:

Introduction

Common Misconception: When most think of the Lord’s Prayer, they recall Matthew 6: "Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name." However, this is technically the Disciples' Prayer, given as a model for them. The Real Lord’s Prayer: Found in John 17, where Jesus prays to the Father directly. John 17 is considered one of the deepest portions of the Bible. It's a chapter filled with simple language yet profound meaning.

Structure of John 17

Verses 1-5: Jesus prays for Himself.
Verses 6-19: Jesus prays for His apostles.
Verses 20-26: Jesus prays for all believers, including those who will come to faith through the apostles' ministry.

Key Questions

What did Jesus ask for?
For whom did He pray?
What can we learn from His prayer?

Key Themes

The Hour Has Come: Refers to the climax of Jesus' earthly mission, particularly His crucifixion.
Glorification Through the Cross: The cross is seen as Jesus' ultimate glorification, showcasing His love, sacrifice, and the completion of His mission.
Eternal Life: Knowing God and Jesus intimately is the essence of eternal life. Jesus asks to return to the glory He had with the Father before His incarnation.

The Glory of the Cross

Historical Perspective: Often, great people are recognized for their true worth in their death.
- Examples:
  - Abraham Lincoln’s greatness was acknowledged even by his critics upon his death.
  - Joan of Arc was recognized as a saint by her executioners.
Martyrdom: Jesus' death on the cross revealed His true glory and drew people to Him.

Completion of His Work

Jesus’ Mission: To show God's love to humanity. The cross is the ultimate demonstration of that love.
Obedience: Jesus glorified God through perfect obedience, even to the point of death on the cross.
Vindication: The resurrection proved Jesus' triumph over death and sin.
Return to Glory: Jesus' resurrection and ascension restored Him to His former glory with the Father.

Knowing God

Old Testament Context: Knowing God was central in Jewish wisdom and prophecy.
- Proverbs 3:18, Hosea 4:6, Amos 5:4 emphasize seeking and knowing God.
New Testament Revelation: Jesus made it possible to know God intimately and personally.

Conclusion

Summary of Jesus' Prayer for Himself: It centers on glorification through the cross, resurrection, and restoration to heavenly glory.
Application for Believers: Jesus' prayer encourages believers to seek an intimate relationship with God, recognizing the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the promise of eternal life.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

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Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

When Grief Can Turn to Joy. (John 16: 16-33) Aug 05, 2024

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Context

In John 16:16-33, Jesus prepares His disciples for His impending departure, His crucifixion, and His eventual resurrection. He assures them that their current sorrow will transform into joy.

Themes and Key Points

1. Sorrow Will Turn to Joy (John 16:16-24)

Understanding "A Little While"

Transformation of Sorrow to Joy

Role of Prayer

2. Jesus Christ Has Overcome the World (John 16:25-33)

Speaking Plainly About the Father

Peace in Tribulation

Application to Personal Life.

Experiencing Joy Through Prayer

Direct Relationship with God: Believers have the privilege of direct communication with the Father through prayer, leading to joy.
Receiving Good Gifts: God promises to answer our prayers, providing us with good gifts that bring joy.

Finding Peace in Tribulation

Jesus’ Presence: In the midst of trials, believers can find peace through the presence of Jesus.
Overcoming Challenges: Trusting in Jesus' victory over the world provides strength and courage to face life's difficulties.

Practical Steps to Embrace Joy and Peace

Embrace the Holy Spirit

Guidance and Truth: Rely on the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth and to provide a clearer understanding of God.
Active Engagement: Engage actively with the Word of God and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your daily life.

Seek God in Prayer

Ask and Receive: Take your requests to the Father in Jesus' name, confident in His promise to answer and bring you joy.
Consistent Prayer Life: Develop a consistent prayer life to experience the fullness of joy that comes from a deep relationship with God.

Trust in Jesus’ Victory

Peace Amidst Trials: Remember that Jesus has overcome the world, and in Him, you can find peace regardless of circumstances.
Enduring Joy: Hold onto the promise that your sorrow will turn into joy, trusting in Jesus' presence and victory.

Conclusion

Jesus’ words in John 16:16-33 offer profound encouragement. Despite the disciples’ impending sorrow, Jesus promises joy, peace, and victory. These assurances are equally relevant for us today. By embracing the Holy Spirit, seeking God in prayer, and trusting in Jesus’ victory, we can transform our grief into unshakeable joy.

Reflective Questions

How can you actively engage with the Holy Spirit in your daily life?
In what areas of your life do you need to seek God more fervently in prayer?
How can you hold onto Jesus’ promise of peace and joy amidst your current challenges?

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

The Work of the Holy Spirit. (John 16: 7-15) Aug 02, 2024

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Introduction

Transformative Life with Christ: Emphasizes the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus Christ, leading to love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, humility, and self-control.
Eternal Impact: Highlights the eternal life and peace promised with Christ, countering nihilism and providing a purposeful life.

Context of John 16:7-15

Preparation for Departure: Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure, introducing them to the Holy Spirit.
Promise of the Holy Spirit: Jesus explains it is beneficial for Him to leave so that the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, can come.

Key Verses (John 16:7-15)

Advocate's Role:
- Verse 7: Jesus' departure allows the Holy Spirit to come.
- Verse 8: The Holy Spirit will convict the world about sin, righteousness, and judgment.
- Verses 9-11: Details on conviction—sin (unbelief), righteousness (Jesus' ascension), and judgment (Satan's defeat).
- Verses 12-13: The Holy Spirit guides into all truth and reveals future events.
- Verses 14-15: The Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus and shares divine truths with believers.

The Holy Spirit's Work

Convicting the World:
- Sin: Convicts people of their sin to lead them to faith in Christ.
- Righteousness: Reveals true righteousness in Jesus’ absence.
- Judgment: Declares the defeat of Satan and the impending judgment.
Guidance for Believers:
- Into All Truth: Leads believers into comprehensive spiritual truth.
- Future Revelations: Discloses future events, particularly concerning the Church.
- Glorifying Jesus: Exalts Jesus by revealing His truths to believers.

Practical Implications

Evangelistic Empowerment: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness effectively.
Divine Guidance: Believers receive continuous guidance and truth from the Holy Spirit.

Progressive Revelation

Understanding Over Time: Revelation is progressive; believers grow in understanding as they mature spiritually.
Word + Spirit: God's truth extends beyond theological knowledge to all areas of life.
Living Revelation: Jesus' revelation continues through the Holy Spirit’s work in believers.

Personal Application

Closer Relationship with Jesus: The closer believers are to Jesus, the more they understand His teachings and purposes.
Living Out the Truth: Embrace the Holy Spirit’s guidance to live a life that glorifies Jesus.

Conclusion

The Holy Spirit’s Role: Essential in guiding, revealing truth, and glorifying Jesus.
Believers' Responsibility: To accept Jesus as Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to work through them.

By understanding the role of the Holy Spirit, believers can experience the transformative power of God's truth in their lives, ensuring they live out their faith effectively and bring glory to Jesus Christ.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

The Three Relationships of Life – Part Three – Our Relationship with the World Another. (John 15:18–16:6) Aug 01, 2024

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Overview

In this episode, we explore the third part of our mini-series within a series on "The Three Relationships of Life," focusing on our relationship with the world as described in John 15:18-16:6. This passage highlights the world's hostility towards Christians and the appropriate response of believers.

Key Themes

Hostility from the World: Jesus warns that the world will hate His followers because it hated Him first. This hatred is rooted in the world's opposition to the values and teachings of Christ.
The Call to Be Different: Christians are chosen to live distinct lives, embodying Christ's teachings and standing firm in their faith despite persecution.
The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness and live out their faith boldly, acting as their Advocate and Guide.

John 15:18-25 – The World's Hatred

Verse 18-19: The world hates Christians because they do not belong to the world; they are chosen by Christ.
Verse 20-21: Jesus reminds His followers that they will be persecuted just as He was. This persecution is due to the world's ignorance of God.
Verse 22-25: Jesus’ coming exposed sin, and those who reject Him also reject God. This fulfils the prophecy of being hated without cause (Psalms 35:19; 69:4).

Historical Context

Early Christians faced severe persecution, accused of disloyalty, insurrection, and bizarre charges like cannibalism due to misunderstandings.
Today, Christians are often seen as nonconformists, and their moral standards can be perceived as a silent condemnation of others.

Responsibilities of Being Chosen by Jesus

Partnership with Christ: Believers are partners, not just followers. They share in His mission to lead the world to God.
Ambassadors for Christ: Christians are to represent Christ in the world, living a life that attracts others to the faith.
Living Advertisements: By embodying Christian virtues, believers spread Christianity through their actions, not just words.
Privileged Members of God’s Family: Believers have the privilege of prayer, guided by faith, alignment with God’s will, and selflessness.

Practical Application

In the Church: Active involvement in both the Lord and fellowship with other believers is crucial. Joining small groups fosters connections, support, and true fellowship.
In the World: Believers are called to witness to non-believers, navigating obstacles with the insight and power of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

Call to Action: Abide in Christ, love one another, and witness to the world. Whether you are a long-time believer or seeking to know more about Jesus, focus on Christ, follow His commands, and engage in meaningful relationships with other believers.
Invitation: For those who do not know the Lord, an invitation to learn about Jesus Christ personally, trust in Him, and experience eternal life and peace.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

The Three Relationships of Life – Part Two – Our Relationship with One Another. (John 15: 12-17) Jul 31, 2024

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Study Notes:

Title: The Three Relationships of Life – Part Two – Our Relationship with One Another
Scripture Focus: John 15:12-17

Main Points:

Introduction to Relationships:
- The podcast explores three major relationships: our relationship with Jesus, our relationship with one another, and our relationship with the world.
- This episode focuses on our relationship with one another, as discussed by Jesus in John 15:12-17.
Sacrificial Love:
- Jesus commands us to love each other as He loved us, emphasizing sacrificial love.
- The greatest love is shown by laying down one's life for friends, as Jesus did.
Jesus' Choice and Command:
- Disciples did not choose Jesus; He chose them and appointed them to bear lasting fruit.
- This relationship is not based on servitude but on friendship and partnership.

Seven Reasons God Chose Us.

Chosen for Joy:
- Despite hardships, Christians are called to a life of deep-seated joy.
- Joy stems from being redeemed sinners and should reflect in our lives.
Chosen for Love:
- Christians are sent into the world to love one another.
- Jesus exemplified the ultimate love by laying down His life for His friends.
Called to Be Friends:
- Jesus elevates His disciples from servants to friends, indicating a deep, personal relationship.
- Historical context: Servants of God (Moses, Joshua, David) were highly honored, yet Jesus offers an even closer relationship.
Called to Be Partners:
- Disciples are not just followers but partners in Jesus' mission.
- Jesus shares His plans and purposes, inviting disciples to collaborate in His work.
Chosen to Be Ambassadors:
- Christians are chosen to represent Jesus in the world, actively engaging and serving.
- The analogy of knights in King Arthur’s court highlights the call to service and mission.
Chosen to Bear Fruit:
- Bearing fruit involves living a life that reflects the Holy Spirit and attracts others to Christianity.
- Authentic Christian living is the most effective way to spread the faith.
Chosen as Members of God's Family:
- Prayer is powerful when it aligns with God's will and is offered in Jesus' name.
- True prayer is unselfish, seeking the good of all God's people and accepting God's answers.

Conclusion:

Sacrificial Love as a Model:
- Sacrificial love involves putting others first, even at personal cost.
- Example of the Salvation Army members on the Empress of Ireland who gave their life jackets to others, showing ultimate love.
Obedience and Friendship with Jesus:
- To be Jesus' friends, we must obey His command to love others.
- Friendship with Jesus involves sharing in His confidence and participating in His mission.
Final Command:
- Jesus begins and ends the passage with the command to love one another.
- Our relationship with Jesus empowers and commands us to cultivate loving relationships with one another.

By understanding and living out these principles, Christians can deepen their relationship with God and with each other, embodying the love and partnership that Jesus calls us to.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

The Three Relationships of Life – Part One – Our Relationship with Jesus. (John 15: 1-11) Jul 30, 2024

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Introduction: The Universality of Problems

Everyone faces problems, often related to human relationships (friends, family, work).
Problems with money, time, and relationships are common.
Jesus' parting instructions to His disciples focused on relationships.

Context of John 15:1-11

Part of the Upper Room Discourse, transitioning from the Upper Room to the walk through the Kidron Valley.
Jesus talks about relationships, particularly our relationship with Him.

The Metaphor of the Vine and Branches

John 15:1-3: Jesus as the true vine, God as the gardener.
- God "prunes" fruitful branches to make them more fruitful.
- The Greek term for "cuts off" can also mean "lifts up," implying support and care for unfruitful branches.

The Concept of Pruning

John 15:2: Pruning involves removing distractions and non-essential parts of our lives to focus on spiritual growth.

Abiding in Christ

John 15:4-9: Emphasis on the necessity of remaining in Christ to bear fruit.
- Without Christ, we can do nothing significant. Abiding in Christ leads to much fruit, while not abiding results in spiritual barrenness.

Consequences of Not Abiding

John 15:6: Unfruitful branches are thrown away and burned, symbolizing spiritual discipline and loss of impact.
Interpretations vary: some see it as a metaphor for divine discipline rather than literal hellfire.

How to Abide in Christ

John 15:10: Obedience to Jesus' commandments is key to remaining in His love.

Benefits of Abiding in Christ

Fruit Bearing:
- Becoming more like Christ and influencing others.
- Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5) and winning others to Christ.
Answered Prayer:
- Aligning prayers with God's will leads to fulfillment of those prayers.
Fulfilled Purpose:
- Glorifying God by living as true disciples and fulfilling our purpose.
Feeling Loved:
- Experiencing a deeper sense of God's love through obedience.
Complete Joy:
- Full and lasting joy comes from remaining in Christ's presence.

Practical Application

Abiding in Christ starts with aligning our lives with His teachings and commands.
Pruning may feel uncomfortable but leads to greater spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
Remaining connected to Christ is essential for overcoming problems and challenges.

Conclusion

Prioritize remaining in Christ: let His word guide, His love fill, and His joy strengthen you.
Commit to staying connected to the vine, and witness God's transformative power in your life.

By focusing on abiding in Christ and understanding the significance of pruning, believers can navigate life's challenges more effectively and bear lasting spiritual fruit.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

When Your Feeling All Alone. (John 14: 8-21) Jul 29, 2024

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Introduction:
Imagine being one of the apostles, having lived, worked, and loved alongside Jesus for years. You would have formed incredibly close and intimate bonds. This was not a typical teacher-student relationship but more akin to a mentorship and partnership, filled with personal interaction and encouragement. The source of their united friendship, fellowship, security, and significance was about to depart. They likely felt deserted, alone, and abandoned.

Setting the Scene: John 14 records this pivotal event, and we've been examining it over several days. Today, we'll continue exploring this discourse in our latest episode of BPDP.

Overview: The disciples were reeling from Jesus' announcement of His imminent departure. During this upper room dialogue, Jesus began by washing their feet, then declared His departure, prompting a series of questions from the disciples—Peter, Thomas, Philip, and Judas (not Iscariot). Despite their questions, Jesus used this opportunity to teach them important spiritual truths. Today, we'll focus on Philip's question, which takes us from John 14:8 to John 14:21.

Philip's Question: Philip's question reveals his deep desire to see and know God more fully, (John 14:8). This question arises from a misunderstanding of Jesus' earlier statement in verse 7, where Jesus said, "If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him."

Jesus' Response: Jesus' response to Philip is profound and addresses the disciples' fears about His departure.

Jesus emphasizes His unity with the Father. Seeing Jesus is equivalent to seeing the Father. His words and works are those of the Father. This reassurance must have been overwhelming for the disciples. Even though Jesus was leaving, they were not being abandoned. The Father remained with them because He is in Jesus, and Jesus is in the Father.

Jesus assures them that they will do even greater works through prayer. This doesn't necessarily mean performing more spectacular miracles but achieving greater scope through prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit. Their works would no longer be limited geographically but would spread worldwide.

Jesus reassures them that although He is leaving, He will send another Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who will be with them forever. This Comforter will counsel and empower them to continue Jesus' work. The Holy Spirit's presence ensures that they are not left as orphans.

Conclusion: Jesus' departure was not the end but a new beginning. Through prayer, obedience, and the Holy Spirit, the disciples would do even greater works. They would experience Jesus' ongoing presence and love. This passage reassures us that we are never truly alone. Jesus' presence, through the Holy Spirit, is with us always, guiding and empowering us to carry out His work.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

Jesus Comforts His Followers. (John 13:31 -14:8) Jul 26, 2024

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Introduction

Key Events: Life events can open us up to spiritual truths. These moments are opportunities for spiritual growth. They allow us to learn and guide others.

Jesus’ Teaching in the Upper Room (John 13:31-14:8)

Setting: After years of teaching, Jesus and His disciples face the crisis of His impending death. Jesus gathers them in the upper room to prepare them.

Key Points of Jesus' Teaching

His Future Glorification (John 13:31-32)
- Jesus announces His glorification: "Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him."
- Meaning: Jesus will be fully revealed as the Son of Man through His death and resurrection.
- God’s Love: Jesus' crucifixion reveals God’s love for humanity (John 3:16).
Jesus’ Departure (John 13:33)
- Jesus tells His disciples He will leave soon and they cannot follow yet.
- Temporary Separation: Unlike the unrepentant, the disciples’ separation from Jesus will be temporary. He promises to return and take them to be with Him.
New Commandment (John 13:34-35)
- Jesus commands: "Love one another as I have loved you."
- Higher Standard: This love involves self-sacrifice, mirroring Jesus' love for humanity.
- Recognition: The world will know Jesus' disciples by their love for one another.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial (John 13:36-38)

Peter’s Question: "Lord, where are you going?"
Jesus’ Response: Peter cannot follow now but will follow later. Jesus predicts Peter’s denial.

Jesus Comforts His Disciples (John 14:1-4)

Comforting Words: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me." Jesus is going to prepare a place for them and will return to take them with Him.

Thomas' Question (John 14:5-7)

Thomas Asks: "Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus’ Profound Statement: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Jesus is the way to the Father because He embodies the truth and the life.

Summary

Love Commandment: Jesus emphasizes the command to love one another, a key indicator of true discipleship.
Peter’s and Thomas’ Questions: While their questions seem off-topic, they lead to deeper revelations about Jesus being the way to the Father.
Eternal Security: Despite predicting Peter’s denial, Jesus reassures him of His unwavering love and commitment.
Focus on Love: By focusing on loving one another, many conflicts and trivial issues can be resolved.

Conclusion

Love One Another: Following Jesus' command to love one another can transform our lives and communities, reflecting God's love to the world.
Personal Reflection: Consider how focusing on love can help navigate life’s critical moments and lead to spiritual growth.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891

The Classic Literature Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568906

To visit my Author page on Amazon and view my entire back catalogue of books on both Amazon and Kindle, and now also on Audible, Visit:

Amazon.com: Jeremy R Mccandless: books, biography, latest update

Betrayal and Denial a Contrast of Extremes. (John 13: 21-30) Jul 25, 2024

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Introduction:

Importance of teaching the Bible over political issues.

Scripture Reading: John 13:21-30

Jesus predicts His betrayal by one of the disciples.
The scene in the upper room before Jesus' crucifixion.
The importance of understanding Jesus’ humanity and His foreknowledge.

Verse Analysis:

John 13:21-22:

Jesus is troubled in spirit, announcing a betrayal among the disciples.
The disciples are perplexed and unsure who the betrayer is.

John 13:23-25:

The disciple whom Jesus loved (traditionally John) reclines next to Jesus.
Simon Peter signals John to ask Jesus who the betrayer is.
John asks Jesus directly.

John 13:26-27:

Jesus identifies Judas as the betrayer by giving him a piece of dipped bread.
Satan enters Judas after he takes the bread.
Jesus tells Judas to act quickly.

John 13:28-30:

The disciples misunderstand Jesus’ words to Judas.
Judas leaves immediately, and it is night, symbolizing spiritual darkness.

Contrasting Extremes:

1. John – The Beloved Disciple:

Physical and Spiritual Proximity: John's physical closeness to Jesus signifies his spiritual intimacy with Him. John’s relationship with Jesus exemplifies a deep, reciprocal love and understanding. John also represents those who seek intimate knowledge and closeness with Jesus, striving to understand His ways deeply.

2. Judas – The Betrayer:

Betrayal Act: Judas’s betrayal despite his closeness to Jesus highlights a stark contrast.
Satan’s Influence: The progression of sin in Judas’s life—from a planted idea to the act of betrayal.
Symbolic Darkness: John’s note that “it was night” signifies Judas’s spiritual darkness and separation from Jesus.

Application to Our Lives:

Spiritual Extremes: Encourages reflection on whether we are closer to the example of John or Judas in our spiritual lives.
Lukewarm Faith: Warns against being lukewarm in our faith, urging a fervent, passionate relationship with Jesus.
Call to Repentance: Revelation 3:15-20 emphasizes the need for zeal and repentance from lukewarmness.

Conclusion:

Challenge: To avoid lukewarmness and seek a radical, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ.

Key Takeaways:

Jesus’ Humanity: His troubled spirit shows His shared human experiences.
Betrayal Foretold: Foreknowledge of betrayal strengthens the disciples’ faith post-event. Striving for closeness with Jesus leads to deeper understanding and wisdom.
Progression of Sin: Sin often starts as a thought and progresses to action, as seen in Judas's betrayal. Closeness to Jesus brings spiritual light; separation brings darkness.
Avoid Lukewarmness: Christians are called to be fervent and radical in their faith, avoiding a lukewarm stance.

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The Ultimate in Love (John 13: 1-20) Jul 24, 2024

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Introduction

Context: This passage marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, occurring just before His crucifixion.
Theme: Jesus demonstrates the ultimate expression of love through humble service and forgiveness, setting an example for His disciples.

Verses 1-11: Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet

Setting and Preparation:
- Occurs during the Passover Festival, a significant Jewish event.
- Jesus is aware of His impending departure from the world and imminent betrayal by Judas (v. 1-2).
- Despite this, Jesus’ love for His disciples is emphasized as enduring and complete (v. 1).
Symbolic Act of Washing Feet:
- Jesus, knowing His divine authority and origin, takes on the role of a servant (v. 3-5).
- He washes the disciples’ feet, including Judas', demonstrating humility and unconditional love (v. 5-11).
Lessons:
- Humility and Service: Jesus teaches that true greatness is found in serving others, regardless of their status or actions.
- Forgiveness: The act of washing feet symbolizes forgiveness and cleansing, essential for spiritual purity and unity.

Verses 12-17: Jesus’ Explanation and Application

Jesus’ Teaching:
- After washing their feet, Jesus explains the significance of His actions (v. 12-15).
- He challenges the disciples to follow His example of humble service and unconditional love (v. 14-15).
- Emphasizes that true discipleship involves serving others as He served them (v. 16-17).
Blessing in Obedience:
- Jesus promises blessings to those who live out His teachings of humility and service (v. 17).

Verses 18-20: Jesus’ Foreknowledge and Confirmation

Prediction of Betrayal:
- Jesus reveals His foreknowledge of Judas’ betrayal, yet still includes him in the act of foot washing (v. 18).
- This underscores the depth of Jesus’ sacrificial love and His willingness to forgive even those who would betray Him.
Identification with Jesus:
- Jesus states that accepting His messengers is equivalent to accepting Him and the Father who sent Him (v. 20).
- Reinforces the unity between Jesus and His disciples, stressing the importance of following His teachings.

Conclusion and Application

Ultimate Expression of Love:
Practical Implications:
Personal Reflection:

In essence, John 13:1-20 portrays Jesus’ act of washing His disciples’ feet as the ultimate demonstration of love—selfless, humble, and forgiving. It calls believers to embody this love in their lives, thereby reflecting the transformative power of Christ’s example.

Support the show

This podcast is entirely the work of Jeremy R McCandless...

Follow and support me on Patreon.

Jeremy McCandless | Creating Podcasts and Bible Study Resources | Patreon

To receive my weekly newsletter and keep up to date with all five of my podcasts, subscribe at:

Jeremy McCandless | Substack

Check out my other Podcasts.

My History of the Christian Church: https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

The L.I.F.E. Podcast: Philosophy and current trends in the Arts and Entertainment.

https://the-living-in-faith-everyday-podcast.buzzsprout.com

The Renewed Mind Podcast. My Psychology and Mental Health Podcast:

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2568891