Reading Plan · Day 308
Changes this passage only. Set your default for every passage.
John 10-12
Day 308
Previously · Day 307 · John 7-9
The previous day's reading covered events that happened at the beginning of the last six months of Jesus' three year public ministry.
Day 308 Read
Where You Stopped
John 10
Commentary · verses 1-5
1Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
2But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
3To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
1Verily, 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.
2But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.
3To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
Commentary · verse 3
The shepherd (Jesus) calls his sheep (believers) by name. The shepherd leads his sheep.
4When he hath put forth all his own, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
4And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
Commentary · verse 4
The sheep follow the shepherd because they know his voice. Sheep are led from the front.
5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
6This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.
6This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.
Commentary · verses 7-18
Verses 7-18: Jesus' interpretation of the Parable of the Shepherd.
7Jesus therefore said unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
7Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
Commentary · verse 7
Jesus is the door.
8All that came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
9I am the door; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and go out, and shall find pasture.
8All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.
9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
Commentary · verse 9
Doctrine: Salvation only comes through Jesus, and it is available to all: "...if any man..." God does not prevent people from being saved.
10The thief cometh not, but that he may steal, and kill, and destroy: I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly.
10The 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.
Commentary · verse 10
Doctrine: Jesus came to give life ("life" – "the ability to repair") and that we can have life abundantly: more life. This verse proved that life cannot mean "existence." How can someone exist more abundantly?
Doctrine: The enemy can only steal, kill, and destroy. The enemy cannot create. The enemy does not have life: the ability to repair.
Doctrines on this passage
11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep.
11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
Commentary · verse 11
Doctrine: Jesus willingly chose to give up His life for the sheep. Jesus was the Good Shepherd. Jesus confirmed this in John 10:18.
Doctrines on this passage
12He that is a hireling, and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, beholdeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth, and the wolf snatcheth them, and scattereth them: 13he fleeth because he is a hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
12But 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.
13The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.
Commentary · verse 13
Doctrine: Hirelings flee during a crisis. If a "leader" tries to ignore a crisis, he is a hireling and does not care for the people.
14I am the good shepherd; and I know mine own, and mine own know me,
14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
Commentary · verse 14
Jesus could have been referencing Ezekiel 34:23 – "And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, even my servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd."
15even as the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.
16And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and they shall become one flock, one shepherd.
15As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.
16And 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.
Commentary · verse 16
The "other sheep...not of this fold" referred to the Gentiles.
17Therefore doth the Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again.
18No one taketh it away 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 received I from my Father.
17Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.
18No 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.
Commentary · verse 18
Doctrine: Jesus had a free will: the ability to act apart from His Nature. Jesus could have chosen to take His life up and not lay it down. Jesus laid down His life voluntarily. Jesus introduced this Doctrine in John 10:11.
19There arose a division again among the Jews because of these words.
20And many of them said, He hath a demon, and is mad; why hear ye him?
21Others said, These are not the sayings of one possessed with a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?
19There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings.
20And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?
21Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?
Commentary · verses 19-21
Some of the people thought Jesus was mad or had a devil because of His words. However, His ability to do miracles caused people to wrestle with an apparent contradiction: a demon possessed person who could do God's work through healings.
22And it was the feast of the dedication at Jerusalem: 23it was winter; and Jesus was walking in the temple in Solomon’s porch.
22And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter.
23And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.
Commentary · verses 22-23
The feast of Dedication was appointed by Judas Maccabaeus (The Silent Period) to commemorate the purification of the temple after it had been defiled by Antiochus Epiphanes. This would have been during our December. This was about 2 3/4 years into Jesus' public ministry. Jesus had about three to four more months until He would be crucified. The feast of Dedication is known to us as Hanukkah.
24The Jews therefore came round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou hold us in suspense? If thou art the Christ, tell us plainly.
24Then 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.
Commentary · verse 24
The theme of John 7-9 was being directly addressed by the Jews: Why did Jesus not directly ("plainly") state that He was the Son of God?
25Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believe not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, these bear witness of me.
25Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.
Commentary · verse 25
Jesus "plainly" stated that He had already answered the question and they believed not. Jesus continued to tell the people that His actions also proved He was the Christ.
26But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep.
27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand.
26But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.
27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:
28And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
Commentary · verses 26-28
Jesus' answer continued to reference His previous teaching about the Good Shepherd. Jesus plainly stated He gave eternal life.
The phrase "no one shall snatch them out of my hand" is often used by people who believe in "eternal security/once saved, always saved." However, just because no man can pluck us out of Jesus' hand does not mean we cannot leave His hand of our own accord.
29My Father, who hath given them unto me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.
29My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.
Commentary · verse 29
This sentence indirectly referred to God as the Father.
30I and the Father are one.
30I and my Father are one.
Commentary · verse 30
Jesus "plainly" stated that He and the Father are "one". This still was not the direct/plain statement the people wanted to hear: "I am the Son of God."
31The Jews took up stones again to stone him.
31Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.
Commentary · verse 31
The Jews responded to it as if He had "plainly" said He was the Son of God.
32Jesus answered them, Many good works have I showed you from the Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?
32Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?
Commentary · verse 32
Jesus reintroduced the apparent contradiction: How could Jesus do miracles and not be from God?
33The Jews answered him, For a good work we stone thee not, but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.
33The 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.
Commentary · verse 33
The Jews understood that Jesus was equating Himself with God. They wanted to stone Him because of blasphemy.
34Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?
34Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?
Commentary · verse 34
Jesus referenced Psalm 82:6. Notice, the Jews did not want to stone Him for saying, "I am the Son of God." Jesus did not say that directly/plainly. However, we saw in John 8:58 Jesus stated He was God ("I AM") as well as in these verses. The Jews were going to stone Him for saying He was God. Jesus asked them a question about their Law when it said we are gods. Jesus made the Jews aware of an apparent contradiction.
35If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came (and the scripture cannot be broken), 36say ye of him, whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?
35If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;
36Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?
Commentary · verses 35-36
Notice, Jesus did not say, "I am the Son of God." Jesus put that phrase in a question that began with an if. Jesus began this sentence with an if concerning the Word of God calling those who sit as judges "gods" and a reminder that the Word of God cannot be broken. The then portion of this phrase was posed in question form: then were you saying the one whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world blasphemed because He said, "I am the Son of God"? Remember, Jesus did not directly say He was the Son of God and they were accusing Him of blaspheming because of that statement. Jesus was asking them if they would disobey God's Word should the situation arise.
37If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
37If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
Commentary · verse 37
Jesus gave them an out, He gave them another if/then statement: He said if He did not do the works of God, then do not believe Him.
38But if I do them, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.
38But 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.
Commentary · verse 38
Jesus gave the contrastive point in yet another if/then statement. if they would not believe Jesus' words they ought to believe His actions. Jesus' actions are not WHY He was fully God but they did prove that He was fully God.
39They sought again to take him: and he went forth out of their hand.
39Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand,
Commentary · verse 39
Their response was to ignore Jesus' words and try to kill Him.
40And he went away again beyond the Jordan into the place where John was at the first baptizing; and there he abode.
41And many came unto him; and they said, John indeed did no sign: but all things whatsoever John spake of this man were true.
42And many believed on him there.
40And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.
41And many resorted unto him, and said, John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true.
42And many believed on him there.
Commentary · verses 40-42
Jesus went out from the city to the place where John had been baptizing. By this time John the Baptist had been imprisoned and martyred. Many of the people believed on Christ because they saw Jesus' works and they saw that the words John spoke about Christ were true. Once again, Jesus went away from the religious leaders because they were looking to stone Him.
Where You Stopped
John 11
1Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, of the village of Mary and her sister Martha.
1Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
Commentary · verse 1
Lazarus was sick.
2And it was that Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.
2(It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)
Commentary · verse 2
Lazarus was Mary's brother. Mary was the woman who would anoint Jesus and wipe His feet with her hair (John 12:3). As we have seen, John did not limit the narrative: he freely jumped ahead, and went back, in time.
3The sisters therefore sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
4But when Jesus heard it, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby.
3Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.
4When 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.
Commentary · verses 3-4
Jesus stated Lazarus' sickness would not end in death and was for the glory of God.
5Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
6When therefore he heard that he was sick, he abode at that time two days in the place where he was.
7Then after this he saith to the disciples, Let us go into Judæa again.
5Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.
6When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.
7Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judea again.
Commentary · verses 5-7
Pay attention to the timing of this story. When Jesus heard Lazarus was sick, He intentionally waited two days before deciding to go to Lazarus.
8The disciples say unto him, Rabbi, the Jews were but now seeking to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?
8His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?
Commentary · verse 8
The Disciples reminded Jesus that the religious leaders were looking to stone Him, and then asked Him whether He really wanted to return.
9Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If a man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.
10But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because the light is not in him.
11These things spake he: and after this he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus is fallen asleep; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.
9Jesus 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.
10But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.
11These 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.
Commentary · verses 9-11
Jesus stayed two extra days and then left for Lazarus intentionally. Jesus' plan was not to heal Lazarus of his sickness but to raise Lazarus from the dead. Would the religious leaders look to stone someone who raised a person from the dead?
12The disciples therefore said unto him, Lord, if he is fallen asleep, he will recover.
13Now Jesus had spoken of his death: but they thought that he spake of taking rest in sleep.
12Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.
13Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.
Commentary · verses 12-13
The Disciples did not understand Jesus meant Lazarus was dead. The Disciples thought Lazarus was sleeping and were attempting to make Jesus aware that healing Lazarus would not be impressive enough to prevent His death.
14Then Jesus therefore said unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
14Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
Commentary · verse 14
Jesus stated that Lazarus was dead because the Disciples wouldn't have accepted returning back to Judaea for anything less.
Doctrine: In the Bible, "plainly" meant a direct statement. This verse proved Jesus had not directly/plainly stated "I am the Son of God." Jesus' response in a "plainly" fashion was "Lazarus is dead." Jesus' statement of His identity in a "plainly" fashion would have been "I am the Son of God." Jesus knew that Lazarus was dead. When did Lazarus die?
15And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
15And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.
Commentary · verse 15
Jesus was glad He was not there because now people, including His Disciples, would believe.
16Thomas therefore, who is called Didymus, said unto his fellow-disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.
16Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.
Commentary · verse 16
This verse set the context that the Disciples realized the religious leaders wanted to kill Jesus and the Disciples thought the religious leaders would probably kill them as well. Thomas encouraged everyone to believe strong enough that they would be willing to die. This was the same person who would eventually doubt the Disciples' testifying of Jesus' resurrection as recorded in John 20:25.
17So when Jesus came, he found that he had been in the tomb four days already.
17Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.
Commentary · verse 17
By the time Jesus and His Disciples had arrived, Lazarus had been in the grave for four days. It must have been at least two days' journey from where Jesus was to Lazarus' tomb because if Jesus had left as soon as He heard, Lazarus would still be alive. However, once Jesus had waited two additional days, Lazarus had been dead four days, and Jesus said Lazarus was already dead when they left.
18Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off; 19and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary, to console them concerning their brother.
18Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:
19And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
Commentary · verses 18-19
Bethany was close enough to Jerusalem that many people were able to come to Martha and Mary, which meant there was a crowd when Jesus arrived.
20Martha therefore, when she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary still sat in the house.
21Martha therefore said unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
22And even now I know that, whatsoever thou shalt ask of God, God will give thee.
20Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.
21Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
22But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
Commentary · verses 20-22
Martha made two statements of faith:
-
Jesus could have prevented Lazarus from dying,
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God would give whatever Jesus asked.
23Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
23Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
Commentary · verses 23-24
Here was another example of someone misunderstanding Jesus, however, it was the opposite of what we saw with the Pharisees. This time Jesus spoke physically and the person misunderstanding Him was thinking spiritually. Notice also, Martha did not understand Jesus, but her disagreement was intended to prove Jesus right. When the Pharisees disagreed with Jesus, they intended to prove Jesus wrong.
25Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth on me, though he die, yet shall he live; 26and whosoever liveth and believeth on me shall never die. Believest thou this?
27She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I have believed that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, even he that cometh into the world.
25Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
27She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.
Commentary · verses 25-27
Again, the result was the opposite of the Pharisees. Martha proclaimed Jesus as the Son of God. The Pharisees wanted to stone Jesus for blasphemy.
28And when she had said this, she went away, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Teacher is here, and calleth thee.
29And she, when she heard it, arose quickly, and went unto him.
30(Now Jesus was not yet come into the village, but was still in the place where Martha met him.)
31The Jews then who were with her in the house, and were consoling her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up quickly and went out, followed her, supposing that she was going unto the tomb to weep there.
32Mary therefore, when she came where Jesus was, and saw him, fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
33When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping who came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,
28And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.
29As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.
30Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him.
31The 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.
32Then 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.
33When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,
Commentary · verses 28-33
Jesus groaned in His Spirit and was troubled because of the sadness of Mary and the people with her.
34and said, Where have ye laid him? They say unto him, Lord, come and see.
35Jesus wept.
34And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.
35Jesus wept.
Commentary · verses 34-35
Jesus was very compassionate. John 11:35 was the shortest verse in the Bible.
36The Jews therefore said, Behold how he loved him!
37But some of them said, Could not this man, who opened the eyes of him that was blind, have caused that this man also should not die?
38Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
39Jesus saith, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time the body decayeth; for he hath been dead four days.
36Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!
37And 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?
38Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.
39Jesus 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.
Commentary · verses 36-39
Martha informed Jesus that Lazarus' body would have been decaying by this point.
40Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou believedst, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou heardest me.
40Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41Then 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.
Commentary · verses 40-41
Notice, Jesus lifted His eyes when He talked with the Father. Jesus' eyes were open.
42And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the multitude that standeth around I said it, that they may believe that thou didst send me.
42And 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.
Commentary · verse 42
Jesus talked to God in front of the people and made the statement to God that God had sent Jesus. Jesus did not directly/plainly testify of Himself to the people.
43And when he had thus spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
43And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
Commentary · verse 43
Jesus made a statement at Lazarus to "come forth." Lazarus, being dead, would not have been able to make a statement for himself. In John 11:11, Jesus also stated that Lazarus was His friend.
Doctrine: In the Bible, friends were able to speak for each other. In the Bible, when people were raised from the dead the faith was expressed by a friend or parent, someone who was able to speak for the dead person.
44He that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave-clothes; and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
44And 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.
Commentary · verse 44
People could have believed they would be unclean if they touched Lazarus because he had been dead. As a Semikah Rabbi, Jesus stated these people would not be unclean.
45Many therefore of the Jews, who came to Mary and beheld that which he did, believed on him.
46But some of them went away to the Pharisees, and told them the things which Jesus had done.
45Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.
46But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.
Commentary · verses 45-46
Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after four days. This caused many to believe on Jesus but some went and told the Pharisees about what Jesus did.
47The chief priests therefore and the Pharisees gathered a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many signs.
47Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.
Commentary · verse 47
The religious leaders confessed Jesus did many signs.
48If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.
48If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.
Commentary · verse 48
The issue was power/control. The religious leaders wanted to remain in control, which was pride.
49But a certain one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, 50nor do ye take account that it is expedient for you that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
51Now this he said not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for the nation; 52and not for the nation only, but that he might also gather together into one the children of God that are scattered abroad.
53So from that day forth they took counsel that they might put him to death.
49And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all,
50Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
51And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;
52And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.
53Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.
Commentary · verses 49-53
Caiaphas was the high priest that year and he had prophesied that one man would die so the whole nation would not perish. From that day forward, the Pharisees and the chief priests conspired together to kill Jesus.
54Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews, but departed thence into the country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim; and there he tarried with the disciples.
55Now the passover of the Jews was at hand: and many went up to Jerusalem out of the country before the passover, to purify themselves.
56They sought therefore for Jesus, and spake one with another, as they stood in the temple, What think ye? That he will not come to the feast?
57Now the chief priests and the Pharisees had given commandment, that, if any man knew where he was, he should show it, that they might take him.
54Jesus 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.
55And the Jews’ passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.
56Then 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?
57Now 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.
Commentary · verses 54-57
Again, Jesus stayed away from Jerusalem and the religious leaders because they were trying to kill Him. However, the Passover was coming and people wondered if Jesus would keep the Passover in Jerusalem. At the end of Jesus' second year of public ministry, the Pharisees were secretly trying to kill Jesus. Here, near the end of Jesus' third year of public ministry, the chief priests and Pharisees were openly trying to kill Jesus. They told the people to let them know if they saw Jesus. The situation was becoming very tense.
Where You Stopped
John 12
1Jesus therefore six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus raised from the dead.
2So they made him a supper there: and Martha served; but Lazarus was one of them that sat at meat with him.
1Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.
2There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
Commentary · verses 1-2
Jesus had dinner with Lazarus and his family six days before the end of Jesus' public ministry.
3Mary therefore took a pound of ointment of pure nard, very precious, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.
3Then 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.
Commentary · verse 3
Mary anointed Jesus with very costly ointment. She anointed His feet and used her hair to wipe them.
4But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples, that should betray him, saith, 5Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred shillings, and given to the poor?
6Now this he said, not because he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and having the bag took away what was put therein.
4Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him,
5Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?
6This 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.
Commentary · verses 4-6
Judas Iscariot wanted to know why the ointment was not sold and the money used to care for the poor. However, he really wanted to know because he was a thief and he carried the bag with the money.
7Jesus therefore said, Suffer her to keep it against the day of my burying.
7Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.
Commentary · verse 7
Mary anointed Jesus for His burial. She believed Jesus' words about His death and burial.
8For the poor ye have always with you; but me ye have not always.
9The common people therefore of the Jews learned 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.
10But the chief priests took counsel that they might put Lazarus also to death; 11because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.
8For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.
9Much 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.
10But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;
11Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.
Commentary · verses 8-11
The chief priests wanted Lazarus to be put to death because many Jews believed in Jesus because of Lazarus being raised from the dead.
12On the morrow a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13took the branches of the palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried out, Hosanna: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel.
12On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,
13Took 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.
Commentary · verses 12-13
Today, this is known as "Palm Sunday": Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. The people referenced Psalm 118:26 which was a confession of Jesus as the Messiah.
14And Jesus, having found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, 15Fear not, daughter of Zion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.
14And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,
15Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.
Commentary · verses 14-15
John referenced Zechariah 9:9.
16These 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.
16These 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.
Commentary · verse 16
John stated that the Disciples did not connect all these events to prophecy at the time they occurred. However, the Disciples realized all of this afterwards.
17The multitude therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb, and raised him from the dead, bare witness.
18For this cause also the multitude went and met him, for that they heard that he had done this sign.
17The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.
18For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.
Commentary · verses 17-18
The crowds were growing, which caused more tension.
19The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Behold how ye prevail nothing; lo, the world is gone after him.
20Now there were certain Greeks among those that went up to worship at the feast: 21these therefore came to Philip, who was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
19The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.
20And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
21The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
Commentary · verses 19-21
Jesus' fame reached past the Jewish culture into the Greek (Gentile) culture.
22Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: Andrew cometh, and Philip, and they tell Jesus.
23And Jesus answereth them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
22Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.
23And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
Commentary · verses 22-23
It sounded like one of Jesus' goals was for His fame to reach to the Greek world before He died.
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a grain of wheat fall into the earth and die, it abideth by itself alone; but if it die, it beareth much fruit.
24Verily, 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.
Commentary · verse 24
The short term destruction (death) of a seed leads to long term profitability (fruit/life).
Doctrine: Growth occurs by going from bad to good through worse. The seed must die ("through worse") before it results in more. Likewise, Jesus must have died ("through worse") in order for it to have resulted in more.
25He that loveth his life loseth it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
26If 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 the Father honor.
27Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour. But for this cause came I unto this hour.
25He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
26If 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.
27Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.
Commentary · verses 25-27
Jesus predicted His suffering.
Doctrines on this passage
28Father, glorify thy name. There came therefore a voice out of heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
28Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
Commentary · verse 28
The Father from heaven said, "I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again."
29The multitude therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it had thundered: others said, An angel hath spoken to him.
30Jesus answered and said, This voice hath not come for my sake, but for your sakes.
29The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
30Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.
Commentary · verses 29-30
The voice was for the sake of the people. God was testifying for Jesus to the people to build their faith.
31Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
32And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto myself.
33But this he said, signifying by what manner of death he should die.
34The multitude therefore answered him, We have heard out of the law that the Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?
31Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
32And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
33This he said, signifying what death he should die.
34The 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?
Commentary · verses 31-34
The multitude referenced Psalm 89:4 and Psalm 110:4 to point out an apparent contradiction between Jesus' statement He would die and those scriptures stated that the Christ would abide forever. This proved the people understood that Jesus was the Son of God. Jesus was fully God, but would not directly refer to Himself as the Son of God. However, since Jesus was fully man, He could have referred to Himself as Son of man.
35Jesus therefore said unto them, Yet a little while is the light among you. Walk while ye have the light, that darkness overtake you not: and he that walketh in the darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.
36While ye have the light, believe on the light, that ye may become sons of light. These things spake Jesus, and he departed and hid himself from them.
37But though he had done so many signs before them, yet they believed not on him: 38that the word of Isaiah 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?
35Then 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.
36While 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.
37But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:
38That 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?
Commentary · verses 35-38
John referenced Isaiah 53:1.
39For this cause they could not believe, for that Isaiah said again, 40He hath blinded their eyes, and he hardened their heart; Lest they should see with their eyes, and perceive with their heart, And should turn, And I should heal them.
39Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again,
40He 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.
Commentary · verses 39-40
John referenced Isaiah 6:10.
41These things said Isaiah, because he saw his glory; and he spake of him.
42Nevertheless even of the rulers many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess it, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: 43for they loved the glory that is of men more than the glory that is of God.
41These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him.
42Nevertheless 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:
43For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
Commentary · verses 41-43
Doctrine: Faith is logic (understanding/say) and feeling (experience/actions). Faith is proven in actions. The rulers logically believed Jesus was the Son of God, they understood it and explained it. However, they did not feel it enough to take action and confess it. What did the rulers feel? The chief rulers loved the praise of man more than the praise of God. Consequently, these rulers believed and did not have faith.
44And Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.
45And he that beholdeth me beholdeth him that sent me.
46I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me may not abide in the darkness.
47And if any man hear my sayings, and keep them not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
44Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.
45And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.
46I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
47And 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.
Commentary · verses 44-47
Doctrine: Jesus came to save the world not to judge the world.
48He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my sayings, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I spake, the same shall judge him in the last day.
49For I spake not from myself; but the Father that sent me, he hath given me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
50And I know that his commandment is life eternal; the things therefore which I speak, even as the Father hath said unto me, so I speak.
48He 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.
49For 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.
50And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
Commentary · verses 48-50
Doctrine: The words Jesus spoke would judge the people.
Commentary · verse 50
This day's reading covered events that occurred from the last three or four months to six days before the end of Jesus' public ministry.
Verses 1-5: the Parable of the Shepherd.