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CHRONOLOGICAL MAIN PAGE



(Part 6 of 20)
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WHAT IS A CHRONOLOGICAL 4 GOSPEL BIBLE?
   The Chronological 4 Gospels are the accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, with a few verses from Acts and 1st Corinthians, combined in chronological form. This enables a person to read and study all four as a unit. One can read Matthew’s account of an event, and then read the same event in the other accounts. There are certain events that are only presented in one or two, but others are presented in all 4. A student of the Bible can now read and study how and when all the events occurred in relation to each other. Thus, a person’s knowledge and understanding of God’s Word should increase as the Holy Spirit gives the understanding.

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Jn 1:31.


















Jn 1:32.








Jn 1:33.








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Jn 1:34.









































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Jn 1:35.





Jn 1:36.














Jn 1:37.











Jn 1:38.












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Jn 1:39.








Jn 1:40.












Jn 1:41.













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Jn 1:43.





























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Jn 1:46.








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Jn 1:47.




















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Jn 1:48.


















Jn 1:49.























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Jn 1:50.







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Jn 2:1.




















Jn 2:2.

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Jn 2:3.















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Jn 2:4.
















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Jn 2:5.






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Jn 2:6.

























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Jn 2:7.





Jn 2:8.







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Jn 2:10.




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Jn 2:11.
























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Jn 2:12.


































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Jn 2:13


































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Jn 2:14.













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Jn 2:15.






























Jn 2:16.







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Jn 2:17.











Jn 2:18.
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Jn 2:19.













































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Jn 2:20.







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Jn 2:22.
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Jn 2:23.








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Jn 2:24.







































Jn 2:25.


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Jn 3:1.
















































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Jn 3:2.









































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Jn 3:3.















































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(COMES) A MAN WHICH IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has a higher rank than I-NASB): FOR HE (EXISTED) BEFORE ME.









AND I (myself) (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM-NASB): BUT THAT HE SHOULD BE (REVEALED) TO ISRAEL, THEREFORE AM I COME BAPTIZING WITH WATER.










JOHN CONTINUES HIS ACCOUNT TO
THE PRIESTS
THE HOLY SPIRIT DESCENDED UPON
JESUS
30 YEARS PLUS 61 DAYS
AND JOHN (BORE) RECORD, SAYING, I SAW THE SPIRIT DESCENDING FROM HEAVEN LIKE A DOVE, AND IT ABODE (or remained) UPON HIM.





AND I KNEW HIM NOT (or I) (did not recognize Him-NASB): BUT HE (the One) THAT SENT ME TO BAPTIZE (or immerse) (IN) WATER, THE SAME SAID (TO) ME, UPON WHOM (YOU) SHALT SEE THE SPIRIT DESCENDING, AND REMAINING ON HIM, THE SAME IS HE (or this is the One-NASB) WHICH (BAPTIZES) (or immerses) WITH THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit).










AND I SAW, AND BARE RECORD (or I testify) THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.


























































































ANDREW, SIMON, AND PERHAPS A
THIRD PERSON
(The first time Jesus meets them)
30 YEARS PLUS 62 DAYS

AGAIN THE NEXT DAY AFTER JOHN STOOD, (WITH) TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES; (Note: Andrew was one, and some believe John was the other.)


AND LOOKING (AT) JESUS AS HE WALKED (passing by), HE (SAID), (LOOK) THE LAMB OF GOD!












AND THE TWO DISCIPLES HEARD HIM SPEAK (this), AND THEY FOLLOWED JESUS.










THEN JESUS TURNED (around), AND SAW THEM FOLLOWING, AND (SAID) (TO) THEM, WHAT SEEK (YOU)? THEY SAID (TO) HIM, RABBI, (WHICH IS TO SAY, BEING INTERPRETED, MASTER,) (or Teacher) WHERE (ARE YOU STAYING)?





















HE (SAID) (TO) THEM, COME AND (you will) SEE. (So) THEY CAME AND SAW WHERE HE (WAS STAYING), AND (they) (STAYED) WITH HIM THAT DAY: FOR IT WAS ABOUT THE TENTH HOUR (or four o'clock in the afternoon-JNT).



ONE OF THE TWO WHICH HEARD JOHN SPEAK, AND FOLLOWED (JESUS), WAS ANDREW, SIMON PETER'S BROTHER.










(ANDREW) (the) FIRST (thing) (he) (did was to) (FIND) HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON, AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, WE HAVE FOUND THE (MESSIAH), WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST (or "One Who has been anointed"-JNT).




































AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS. AND WHEN JESUS (LOOKED AT) HIM, HE SAID, (YOU) (ARE) SIMON THE SON OF (JONAH): (YOU) (SHALL) BE CALLED CEPHAS, WHICH IS BY INTERPRETATION, A STONE (or Peter).
































JESUS GOES INTO GALILEE
MEETS PHILIP AND NATHANAEL

30 YEARS PLUS 63 DAYS
THE DAY FOLLOWING JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE, AND (FOUND) PHILIP, AND (Jesus) (SAID) (TO) HIM, FOLLOW ME.






Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 209












































































NOW PHILIP WAS OF BETHSAIDA, THE CITY OF ANDREW AND PETER.

















PHILIP (FOUND) NATHANAEL, AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, WE HAVE FOUND HIM (the One), OF WHOM MOSES IN THE LAW, AND THE PROPHETS, DID WRITE, JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE SON OF JOSEPH.






































Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 212



























































































































AND NATHANAEL SAID (TO) HIM, CAN THERE ANY GOOD THING COME OUT OF NAZARETH? PHILIP (SAID) (TO) HIM, COME AND SEE.



































JESUS SAW NATHANAEL COMING TO HIM, AND (SAID) OF HIM, BEHOLD AN ISRAELITE (or true son of Israel-JNT) INDEED, IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or deceit, or nothing false)!
























NATHANAEL (SAID) (TO) HIM, (HOW DO YOU KNOW-JNT) ME? JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, BEFORE THAT PHILIP CALLED (YOU), WHEN (YOU) (WERE) UNDER THE FIG TREE, I SAW (YOU).














NATHANAEL ANSWERED AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, RABBI, (YOU) (ARE) THE SON OF GOD; (YOU) (ARE) THE KING OF ISRAEL.














Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 215

































JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, BECAUSE I SAID (TO) (YOU), I SAW (YOU) UNDER THE FIG TREE, (DO YOU BELIEVE) (all this)? (YOU) (SHALL) SEE GREATER THINGS THAN THESE.



AND HE (SAID) (TO) HIM, VERILY, VERILY (or yes indeed) (or most assuredly), I SAY (TO) YOU (the truth), HEREAFTER (YOU) SHALL SEE HEAVEN OPEN, AND THE ANGELS OF GOD (GOING UP) AND (COMING DOWN) UPON THE SON OF MAN.
































(TO CANA)
JESUS' FIRST MIRACLE:
THE WATER TO WINE
30 YEARS PLUS 64 DAYS

AND (on) THE THIRD DAY THERE WAS A MARRIAGE (or wedding) IN CANA OF GALILEE; AND THE MOTHER OF JESUS WAS THERE:

















AND BOTH JESUS WAS (INVITED), AND HIS DISCIPLES, TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding).


































AND WHEN THEY (RAN OUT OF) WINE, THE MOTHER OF JESUS (SAID) (TO) HIM, THEY HAVE NO (more) WINE









Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 218




































(And) JESUS (SAID) (TO) HER, (Dear) WOMAN, WHAT HAVE I TO DO WITH (YOU) (or why do you involve Me-NIV, or what does your concern have to do with Me–NKJV)? (MY) (TIME) IS NOT YET COME.









Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 219













































HIS MOTHER (SAID) (TO) THE SERVANTS, (WHATEVER) HE (SAYS) (TO) YOU, DO IT.






























AND (nearby) THERE WERE SET THERE SIX WATERPOTS OF STONE, AFTER THE MANNER OF THE PURIFYING (or ceremonial washings) OF THE JEWS (or for the Jewish custom of purification-NASB), CONTAINING TWO OR THREE FIRKINS APIECE (or twenty or thirty gallons each-NASB).

































JESUS (SAID) (TO) (THE SERVANTS), FILL THE WATERPOTS WITH WATER. AND THEY FILLED THEM UP TO THE BRIM.



AND HE (SAID) (TO) THEM, DRAW (some) OUT NOW, AND (TAKE IT) (TO) THE GOVERNOR (or man in charge) OF THE FEAST (or banquet).  AND THEY (TOOK) IT (to him).




WHEN THE RULER (or man in charge) OF THE FEAST (or banquet) HAD TASTED THE WATER THAT (HAD BECOME) WINE, AND KNEW NOT (WHERE) IT WAS (from): (BUT THE SERVANTS WHICH DREW THE WATER KNEW;) THE GOVERNOR (or master) OF THE FEAST CALLED THE BRIDEGROOM (aside),










AND (SAID) (TO) HIM, EVERY MAN AT (FIRST) (BRINGS) FORTH (the) GOOD (or choice) WINE; AND (AFTER) MEN HAVE (HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK-NIV), THEN THAT WHICH IS (the) WORSE (or cheaper, or inferior): BUT (YOU) (HAVE) KEPT THE (BEST) WINE UNTIL NOW.























THIS BEGINNING (or first) OF MIRACLES (or miraculous signs) DID JESUS IN CANA OF GALILEE, AND (REVEALED) HIS GLORY; AND HIS DISCIPLES (PUT THEIR FAITH) (or trust in) HIM.










Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 224









































































JESUS GOES TO CAPERNAUM
30 YEARS PLUS 2½ MONTH

AFTER THIS HE WENT DOWN TO CAPERNAUM, HE, AND HIS MOTHER, AND HIS (BROTHERS), AND HIS DISCIPLES: AND THEY CONTINUED THERE (A FEW) DAYS.











































JESUS GOES TO JERUSALEM
AND CLEANSES THE TEMPLE
30 YEARS PLUS 6 MONTHS
(AROUND APRIL)

AND THE JEWS' PASSOVER WAS AT HAND, AND JESUS WENT UP TO JERUSALEM,









Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 226


























































AND FOUND IN THE TEMPLE (courts or grounds) THOSE (men) THAT SOLD OXEN (or cattle) AND SHEEP AND DOVES (or pigeons), AND THE CHANGERS OF MONEY SITTING (at tables) (doing business):



















AND WHEN HE HAD MADE A SCOURGE (or whip out) OF SMALL CORDS, HE DROVE THEM ALL OUT OF THE TEMPLE (grounds), AND (both) THE SHEEP, AND THE OXEN (or cattle) (as well); AND POURED OUT (or scattered) THE (money) CHANGERS’ (COINS), AND (OVERTURNED) (THEIR) TABLES;
























AND SAID (TO) THEM THAT SOLD DOVES (or pigeon)(s), TAKE THESE THINGS (AWAY) (or get these things out of here!–NIV); (STOP MAKING) MY FATHER’S HOUSE AN HOUSE OF MERCHANDISE (or How dare you turn My Father’s house into a market?–NIV).








































AND HIS DISCIPLES REMEMBERED THAT IT WAS WRITTEN, THE ZEAL OF (YOUR) HOUSE (HAS) EATEN ME UP (or zeal for your house will consume [or devour] Me–NIV).








THEN ANSWERED THE JEWS AND SAID (TO) HIM, WHAT SIGN (SHOW) (YOU) (TO) US, SEEING THAT (YOU) (DO) THESE THINGS (or what miraculous sign) (do YOU show to us–NKJV) (to prove You have the–JNT) (authority to do all this–NIV)?





Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 231




























































































JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) THEM, DESTROY THIS TEMPLE, AND IN THREE DAYS I WILL RAISE IT UP.























































THEN SAID THE JEWS, FORTY AND SIX YEARS WAS THIS TEMPLE IN BUILDING, AND (WILL) (YOU) (RAISE) IT UP IN THREE DAYS?




BUT HE (WAS SPEAKING) OF THE TEMPLE OF HIS BODY.




























WHEN THEREFORE HE WAS RISEN FROM THE DEAD, HIS DISCIPLES REMEMBERED THAT HE HAD SAID THIS (TO) THEM; AND THEY BELIEVED (or trusted) THE SCRIPTURE, AND THE WORD WHICH JESUS HAD SAID.




































NOW WHEN HE WAS IN JERUSALEM AT THE PASSOVER, IN THE FEAST DAY, MANY (people) BELIEVED IN HIS NAME, WHEN THEY SAW THE MIRACLES (or signs) WHICH HE DID.











BUT JESUS DID NOT COMMIT (or entrust) HIMSELF (TO) THEM, BECAUSE HE KNEW (WHAT PEOPLE ARE LIKE–JNT),





































AND (He) NEEDED NOT THAT ANY (one) SHOULD TESTIFY OF MAN: FOR HE KNEW WHAT WAS IN MAN (or He didn’t need anyone to inform Him about a person, because He knew what was in the person’s heart–JNT).














































JESUS TEACHES ON BEING
BORN–AGAIN
30 YEARS PLUS 6 MONTHS

(Now) THERE WAS A MAN OF THE PHARISEES, NAMED NICODEMUS, A RULER OF THE JEWS (or member of the Jewish ruling council–NIV):

Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 237



















































(THIS MAN) CAME TO JESUS BY NIGHT, AND SAID (TO) HIM, RABBI, WE KNOW THAT (YOU) (ARE) A TEACHER COME FROM GOD (or we know it is from God that You have come as a teacher–JNT): FOR NO MAN CAN DO THESE MIRACLES (or miraculous signs) THAT (YOU) (DO), EXCEPT GOD BE WITH HIM





































JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, (YES, INDEED), I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth), (UNLESS) A MAN BE BORN AGAIN (from above), HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD (or no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again–NIV).





































Commentary scriptures continue on pg. 248










    (the One) OF WHOM (I was talking about when–JNT) I SAID,
    AFTER ME
    (COMES) A MAN. Note that John calls the Lamb of God “A MAN”–
    WHICH IS PREFERRED BEFORE ME (or has a higher rank than I–NASB). The Lamb of God, the Christ is preferred before John–
    FOR HE (EXISTED)
    BEFORE ME. John’s words confirms the Deity of the Lamb of God, the Christ. John Baptist originally spoke these words before Jesus came to him and was baptized but now speaks them again–ref Jn 1:15. Although John was born approximately 6 months before Jesus, Jesus Christ has existed from everlasting to everlasting. By Him and for Him were all things created–ref Col 1:16. Over and over we see the focus of John was upon the Messiah, not himself. Jesus Christ fulfilled every Old Testament Scripture written about Him pertaining to His first coming. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:31.                    AND I (myself) (this is John Baptist speaking). He said he–
    (DID NOT RECOGNIZE HIM). There are several possibilities for this statement. This could indicate that Jesus and John may never have see each other at all. Thus he did not recognize Him physically. It may also be that John did not know that Jesus of Nazareth was the Messiah until it was revealed to Him by the Spirit lighting upon Him after being baptized. Perhaps it was both. The virgin Mary and Elizabeth, the mother of John were cousins. Thus Jesus and John appears to have been distant relatives–ref Lk 1:36. Perhaps John’s father and mother Elizabeth, had not revealed to him what they knew. The verse continues–
    BUT THAT HE SHOULD BE (REVEALED) TO ISRAEL. John may not have recognized Jesus, or knew Who the Christ was until the time came for Him to be revealed to Israel. John said–
    THEREFORE AM I COME
    BAPTIZING WITH WATER. John knew ahead of time that the Christ would be revealed to Israel. It is for this reason that he was baptizing the repentant people with water that believed the Messiah was soon to come even though he didn't seem to know Who He was. The verses continue–






    Jn 1:32.                    AND JOHN (BORE) RECORD, SAYING,
    I SAW THE SPIRIT
    DESCENDING FROM HEAVEN LIKE A DOVE,
    AND IT ABODE (or remained) UPON HIM. This event that John Baptist described happened an estimated 61 days previously. It is recorded in Mt 3:16. This is further testified in the Old Testament as it is written in Isa 11:2–AND THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD SHALL REST UPON HIM, THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING, THE SPIRIT OF COUNSEL AND MIGHT, THE SPIRIT OF KNOWLEDGE AND OF THE FEAR OF THE LORD.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 1:33.                    AND I KNEW HIM NOT (or I) (did not recognize Him–NASB). Again John the Baptist states he did not know or recognize Jesus the Christ as was said in verse 31. The verse continues–
    BUT HE (the One) THAT SENT ME
    TO BAPTIZE (or immerse) (IN) WATER. God the Father sent John the Baptist to baptize in water. The verse continues–
    THE SAME SAID
    (TO) ME. God the Father speaks to His people. John the Baptist was filled with the Spirit of God from the womb–ref Lk 1:15. The verse continues–
    UPON WHOM (YOU) SHALT SEE THE SPIRIT
    DESCENDING, AND REMAINING ON HIM. Not only did the Spirit of God descend upon Jesus, but it remained on Him. The verse continues–
    THE SAME IS HE (or this is the One–NASB). God had told John what sign to look for so he would know Who the Lamb of God was. God had told him, THE SAME IS HE (which is the Messiah)–
    WHICH (BAPTIZES) (or immerses)
    WITH THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit). The baptism that the Christ does is not a water baptism. Jesus said just before he ascended up to be with His Father about 3 years and 4 months later in Acts 1:5–FOR JOHN TRULY BAPTIZED WITH WATER; BUT YE SHALL BE BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY GHOST NOT MANY DAYS HENCE. That event happened at Pentecost ref Acts 2:1–4, about 3 ½ hears later. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:34.                    AND I SAW. John actually saw the things he was speaking of. He was an eye witness. John saw–
    AND BARE RECORD (or testify). Having actually saw these things, John now bears record–
    THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD. John states clearly, that the person which is known as Jesus of Nazareth, and is known as the Lamb of God, is the actual Son of God. Being that Jesus is the one and only begotten Son of God, He is Deity. This means He is the long awaited Christ that the people were waiting for according to Daniel’s prophecy. This is the One that would take away the sin of the world. This is literally, God manifested in the flesh.
    It appears, however, that Jesus did not allow the unclean spirits or His disciples to tell people that He was the Son of God, as it is written: Mk 3:11,12–Unclean spirits, said: THOU ART THE SON OF GOD. AND HE STRAITLY CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD NOT MAKE HIM KNOWN. Mk 8:29,30 and Lk 9:20,21–PETER…SAITH UNTO HIM, THOU ART THE CHRIST. AND HE CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD TELL NO MAN OF HIM.
    John did not go before the religious leaders of his day to ask permission to do what he was doing. John’s direction was from God as confirmed by the Word of God.
    The words “Son of God” appears approximately 1 time in the Old Testament and 50 times in the New Testament.


BEGOTTEN
ONLY BEGOTTEN SON
SON OF GOD
    The word or words begotten, indicating that Jesus is the only begotten Son of God or the words only begotten Son appear in the following verses: Jn 1:14, 18; 3:16, 18; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 Jn 1:9.
    There were times when Jesus himself clearly showed that He is the Son of God. There were times when others testified that He is the Son of God. There were times when unclean spirits would tell the people that He was the Son of God, but He rebuked them and stopped them from doing so. Following are some examples of these.

    Jesus stopped the unclean spirits from making Him known. Mk 1:24–25–They said–LET US ALONE; WHAT HAVE WE TO DO WITH THEE, THOU JESUS OF NAZARETH? ART THOU COME TO DESTROY US? I KNOW THEE WHO THOU ART, THE HOLY ONE OF GOD. AND JESUS REBUKED HIM, SAYING, HOLD THY PEACE, AND COME OUT OF HIM.
    Mk 3:11–12–AND UNCLEAN SPIRITS, WHEN THEY SAW HIM, FELL DOWN BEFORE HIM, AND CRIED, SAYING, THOU ART THE SON OF GOD. AND HE STRAITLY CHARGED THEM THAT THEY SHOULD NOT MAKE HIM KNOWN.

    Others referred to Jesus as the Son of God. It is written in Jn 11:3,4–THEREFORE HIS SISTERS SENT UNTO HIM, SAYING, LORD, BEHOLD, HE WHOM THOU LOVEST IS SICK. 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.
    Jn 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.

    Jesus used the words Son of God with reference to Himself. Jesus said in Jn 5:25–VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, THE HOUR IS COMING, AND NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR THE VOICE OF THE SON OF GOD AND THEY THAT HEAR SHALL LIVE.
    Jn 9:35–37–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? HE ANSWERED AND SAID, WHO IS HE, LORD, THAT I MIGHT BELIEVE ON HIM? AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, THOU HAST BOTH SEEN HIM, AND IT IS HE THAT TALKETH WITH THEE.
    Jn 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?
    Mk 14:61–62–THE HIGH PRIEST ASKED HIM,…ART THOU THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE BLESSED? AND JESUS SAID, I AM.
    Jn 8:58–JESUS SAID UNTO THEM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, BEFORE ABRAHAM WAS, I AM.
    The verses continue–

GOD SENT JESUS (Some Scriptures from Jn)
JESUS SENT FROM GOD
    Jn 1:34–AND I SAW, AND BARE RECORD THAT THIS IS THE SON OF GOD.
    Jn 4:34–MY MEAT IS TO DO THE WILL OF HIM THAT SENT ME, AND TO FINISH HIS WORK.
    Jn 5:23–THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT HIM.
    Jn 5:30–THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 5:37–THE FATHER HIMSELF, WHICH HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 5:38–WHOM HE HATH SENT.
    Jn 6:29–HIM WHOM HE HATH SENT.
    Jn 6:38–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 6:39–THE FATHER’S WHICH HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 6:40–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 6:44–THE FATHER WHICH HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 6:57–THE LIVING FATHER HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 7:16–MY DOCTRINE IS NOT MINE, BUT HIS THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 7:28–29–I AM NOT COME OF MYSELF, BUT HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE.
    Jn 7:29–FOR I AM FROM HIM, AND HE HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 8:18–THE FATHER THAT SENT ME BEARETH WITNESS OF ME.
    Jn 8:26–HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE.
    Jn 8:29–AND HE THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 8:42–FOR I PROCEEDED FORTH AND CAME FROM GOD; NEITHER CAME I OF MYSELF,
    BUT HE SENT ME.
    Jn 9:4–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 10:36–THE FATHER HATH...SENT INTO THE WORLD.
    Jn 11:42–THOU HAST SENT ME.
    Jn 12:44–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 12:45–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 12:49–THE FATHER WHICH SENT ME.
    Jn 13:20–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 14:24–THE FATHER’S WHICH SENT ME.
    Jn 15:21–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 16:5–HIM THAT SENT ME.
    Jn 17:3–WHOM THOU HAST SENT.
    Jn 17:18–THOU HAST SENT ME.
    Jn 17:21–THOU HAST SENT ME.
    Jn 17:23–THOU HAST SENT ME.
    Jn 17:25–THOU HAST SENT ME.
    Jn 20:21–MY FATHER HATH SENT ME. The verses continue–



    Beginning with verse 35, the Bible begins to focus on the ministry of Jesus rather than the ministry of John Baptist. It is also the beginning of some of John’s disciples leaving him to go with Jesus.
    Jn 1:35.                    AGAIN THE NEXT DAY. Two days previously Jesus stood in the crowd. The next day John points Him out and identifies Him as the Son of God. Now the next day–
    AFTER JOHN STOOD, (WITH) TWO OF HIS DISCIPLES. John undoubtedly had many disciples at this time–note Jn 3:25. A bit further on we understand that the two were Andrew and probably John who wrote the Gospel of John. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:36.                    AND LOOKING (AT) JESUS
    AS HE WALKED (passing by). Jesus was passing by the location that John the Baptist was located at. The verse continues–
    HE (SAID), (LOOK). John tells his disciples and others that might have been standing there to “look”–
    THE LAMB OF GOD! Again John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God. John had no pride or fear that he might loose some of his disciples to Jesus. He appeared to take every possible opportunity possible to direct people to Jesus.
    Many men did follow Jesus for it is written in Jn 1:26,27,30–ALL MEN COME TO HIM. John seemed to indicate that those that were with him and those that followed Jesus were ordained from God as it is written: A MAN CAN RECEIVE NOTHING EXCEPT IT BE GIVEN HIM FROM HEAVEN. HE MUST INCREASE, BUT I MUST DECREASE. Again John’s focus was on Jesus, not himself. This is the way it should be with all Christians, but sadly, most have their focus on themselves far more than on Jesus. We are reminded of the Scripture in Isa 26:3–THOU WILT KEEP HIM IN PERFECT PEACE, WHOSE MIND IS STAYED ON THEE: BECAUSE HE TRUSTETH IN THEE.
    John could not take away the sins of the world. He had already said in verse 29 that it was the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:37.                    AND THE TWO DISCIPLES. These are two that were disciples of John, they–
    HEARD HIM (that is John Baptist)–
    SPEAK (this),
    AND THEY FOLLOWED JESUS. By this time they should have understood that Jesus was the long awaited Christ, but their understanding would have been very shallow. Little did they comprehend that what they were doing was the beginning of a change in their life for eternity. They did not understand that during the millennium they would rule over the twelve tribes of Israel–ref Lk 22:30. They did not know that their names would forever be written in the foundations of New Jerusalem–ref Rev 21:14. They did not understand that it was God in heaven that had put it in their hearts to follow Jesus.
    The following of Jesus in this passage is not in the since of picking up your cross and following Him spiritually, but rather, physically they followed Him. They would be called to “FOLLOW HIM” totally in Mt 4:19 about 8 months later. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:38.                    THEN JESUS TURNED (around),
    AND SAW THEM FOLLOWING. This indicates that they were behind Him. Jesus spoke–
    AND (SAID) (TO) THEM,
    WHAT SEEK (YOU)? These are the first words recorded in John’s Gospel that Jesus spoke. The first words Jesus spoke chronologically are in Lk 2:49. Jesus opened the door to them by speaking first. As one studies the words of Jesus, it is noted that he spoke few words but what He spoke was to the point. He did not waist words. What His father gave Him to speak, that He spoke.

JESUS SPOKE THE WORDS THAT HIS FATHER GAVE HIM TO SAY
WORDS JESUS SPOKE
    Jn 3:32–AND WHAT HE HATH SEEN AND HEARD, THAT HE TESTIFIETH; AND NO MAN RECEIVETH HIS TESTIMONY.
    Jn 8:26–I HAVE MANY THINGS TO SAY AND TO JUDGE OF YOU: BUT HE THAT SENT ME IS TRUE; AND “I SPEAK TO THE WORLD THOSE THINGS WHICH I HAVE HEARD OF HIM”.
    Jn 8:40–BUT NOW YE SEEK TO KILL ME, A MAN THAT HATH TOLD YOU THE TRUTH, WHICH I HAVE HEARD OF GOD: THIS DID NOT ABRAHAM.
    Jn 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.

    The verse continues. The two disciples of John responded to the question of Jesus with their own question–
    THEY SAID (TO) HIM, RABBI, (WHICH IS TO SAY, BEING INTERPRETED, MASTER,) (or Teacher). It can signify that by calling Him “Rabbi"”, they showed a desire to be taught by Him. The said to Jesus–
    WHERE (ARE YOU STAYING)? In asking, “Where are you staying”, they seemed to indicate that they wanted to get to know Him better. Little did they understand at this time that His real home was in heaven with the Father.
    All born again Christians should want to lodge with Jesus everyday. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:39.                    HE (SAID) (TO) THEM,
    COME AND (you will) SEE.
    (So) THEY CAME AND SAW WHERE HE (WAS STAYING),
    AND (they) (STAYED) WITH HIM THAT DAY:
    FOR IT WAS ABOUT THE TENTH HOUR (or four o’clock in the afternoon–JNT). The Jews begin their day at night when they can first see 3 stars. For normality we may say at 6 PM our time. The daylight period then would begin approximately 6 am our time. Thus the tenth hour would be 4 PM. Some might relate this time to Roman time which would be 10 am. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:40.                    ONE OF THE TWO
    WHICH HEARD JOHN SPEAK,
    AND FOLLOWED (JESUS),
    WAS ANDREW,
    SIMON PETER’S BROTHER.
Little did he know at that time, that his life would be changed for eternity. Not only was he to become a disciple of Jesus, he would become an apostle. During the millennium he, along with 11 other apostles will reign and rule over the twelve tribes of Israel as Jesus will reign on the earth as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Andrew’s permanent residence thereafter will be in the city of God called New Jerusalem.
    The other that was with Andrew appears to have been John’who would later become an apostle.
    When a person repents and receives Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, little do they initially realize how it will ultimately effect the rest of their life both now in this present world and life everlasting in the world to come. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:41.                    (ANDREW) (the) FIRST (thing) (he) (did was to) (FIND)
    HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON.
Note, the very first thing he did and that was in his heart was to tell someone close to him that he loved about the wonderful news of finding the Messiah. There is no mention that he did any such thing when he followed John Baptist. Telling people about Jesus (the Christ, the only begotten Son of God) should be in the heart of all that truly find Jesus Christ, or it may be said, that Jesus finds them. Andrew also brought a lad to Jesus which had five barley loaves and two small fishes about 28 months later–ref Jn 6:8,9. The name of Andrew is mentioned about 13 times in the New Testament. The verse continues–
    AND (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    WE (meaning Andrew and John, which later would become apostles), WE–
    HAVE FOUND THE (MESSIAH). Actually, it was Jesus that found and called them, but from their view point, it was they had found the Messiah, (or the Anointed One)–
    WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST (or “One Who has been anointed”–JNT). As one reads this, one can sense the excitement Andrew must have had. There is indeed, excitement in the hearts of one that truly finds Jesus and understands what it truly means. Many claim they are saved, but there is no excitement, no running to tell others about Jesus, and no dedication to Christ. The reason for that is evident. They may have found religion, but not Jesus. They may have found a comfortable church to attend with lots of nice people and activities, but not Jesus. The Jesus that most find is not the Jesus of the Bible, but a remanufactured Jesus which is in a person's evil imagination but not in their heart. The Jesus that most people find is a Jesus that conforms to what they want to believe and what they think they need. However, the Jesus of the Bible is a Jesus that tells each of us that we are to repent and conform to Him, to fear God, to obey Him, to surrender ourselves to Him, to deny self, and to love Him.
    1.    Name: Andrew (means–“manly, conqueror”).
           Son of: Jona (dove)–Jn 1:42; Jonah–Jn 21:15; John–NIV.
           Related to: brother of Peter.
           Where from: Bethsaida–Jn 1:44.
           Lived in: Bethsaida and Capernaum.
           Occupation: Fisherman–Mk 1:16.
           Misc: Originally a disciple of John the Baptist. Brought Peter to Jesus–Jn 1:41. Andrew and Peter owned a house
           together–Mk 1:29.

    5.    Name: John * (means–“gift of God”).
           Surnamed: Boanerges (the sons of thunder)–Mk 3:17.>
           Related to: brother of James. Son of: Zebedee and Salome. Salome may have been the sister of Mary, the mother of
           Jesus, which would make him a cousin of Jesus–ref Mk 15:40; Jn 19:25.
           Lived in: Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Jerusalem.
           Occupation: Fisherman. James and John partners with Simon–ref Lk 5:10.
           Bible information: Wrote the Gospel According to John, First John, Second John, Third John, and the Revelation.
           This totals 5 books, 50 chapters, and 1,414 verses.
           How died: It is believed he died a natural death.
           Misc: James is always mentioned first. Only disciple mentioned that stood at the cross, yet allowed Peter to enter
           the tomb first. Cared for the mother of Jesus. Asked Jesus, WILT THOU THAT WE COMMAND FIRE TO
           COME DOWN FROM HEAVEN, AND CONSUME THEM?–Lk 9:54. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:42.                    AND HE BROUGHT HIM TO JESUS. Andrew went to find his brother and not only did he find him, but he brought him to Jesus personally. One might ask you, who have you brought to Jesus? The verse continues–
    AND WHEN JESUS (LOOKED AT) HIM, HE SAID,
    (YOU) (ARE) SIMON THE SON OF (JONAH). Jesus knew both Simon’s name and whose son he was. Jesus knows all that are His whom His father gives Him. It is reported that Simon meant obedient and that Jona meant a dove. All born again Christians should have a dove like spirit that is obedient to Christ.
    First Jesus calls Simon by name, but then He said–
    (YOU) (SHALL) BE CALLED CEPHAS. (Kephas #2786–Strong’s concordance). Peter is called Cephas approximately 6 times in the New Testament–
    WHICH IS BY INTERPRETATION, A STONE (ref 4074–Strong's concordance) (or Peter). (ref 4074–Strong’s concordance) (or Peter). (Ref 4074–Strong’s concordance–“stone” is Petros which means a piece of a rock). It is not the same word that is used for Jesus (the Rock) as a certain misguided denomination teaches. The church is not built upon Peter. It is built upon Jesus which is confirmed throughout the New Testament as well as the Revelation, chapters 2 and 3. The word STONE (or piece of a rock) does not represent what Peter was, but what he would become as he followed Jesus and was transformed. After the resurrection Peter was becoming as his name implied. Jesus knew in advance whom the Father would give Him. Now, upon seeing Simon, he tells him he will now be called Cephas (or Peter)(a stone). Peter’s life was already planned by God from before the foundation of the world. He would become a pillar in the early church.
    Unfortunately, to their own destruction, many people resist the calling that God has upon their life. Many selfishly resist the transformation that God wants to do in their life to their own hurt and destruction. Each of those that followed Jesus had a deep hunger for God. Do you have that deep hunger for God? How have you changed on the inside since Christ found you?
    9.    Name: Peter * (means–“stone; a piece of a rock”). (ref Jn 1:42)
           Also known as: Simon–Mt 4:18; Simon Barjona–Mt 16:17; Simeon–Acts 15:14; Cephas (rock)–ref Jn 1:42.
           Son of: Jona (dove)–Jn 1:42; Jonah–Jn 21:15; John–Jn 21:15 NIV.
    It is reported that the name of Cephas in Aramaic means a stone and in Greek (2786–Strong's concordance) the same name is by interpretation is a stone or Petros which means "a piece of a rock."
           Jesus was called that ROCK in 1 Cor 10:4. The word rock is used approximately 13 times in the New Testament,
           however Peter is never referred to as the Rock (ref 4073–Petra–Strong’s concordance means a rock or mass of rock)
           but rather he is referred to as a stone (ref 4074 which means a piece of the rock). The church is not built upon Peter
           as some would have you believe. It is built upon Jesus.
           Related to: brother of Andrew.
           Where from: Bethsaida–Jn 1:44.
           Lived in: Bethsaida and Capernaum.
           Occupation: Fishermen–Mk 1:16. James and John partners with Simon–ref Lk 5:10.
           Bible information: He wrote First and Second Peter.
           Misc: Originally a disciple of John the Baptist. Unpredictable. Andrew led him to Jesus. Andrew and Peter owned
           a house together–Mk 1:29. Was or had been married. Note the words, SIMON’S WIFE’S MOTHER–Mk 1:30.
           The verses continue–



    Jn 1:43.                    THE DAY FOLLOWING
    JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE. Jesus now leaves the area that He was in (which was near where John the Baptist was baptizing in Judea). He probably traveled in a somewhat northern direction near the Jordan river–
    AND (FOUND) PHILIP. Jesus himself called Philip. It was not the same as Simon that was led to Christ by another. When He finds Philip–
    AND (Jesus) (SAID) (TO) HIM, FOLLOW ME. That same message is to all that are called of God–follow Jesus. Regretfully, in this lukewarm and misled generation, many seem to indicate that Jesus is to follow them. Many seem to suggest that He is their servant and is to give them all the promises in the Bible and on their part little or nothing is required. This is the first instance chronologically that Jesus used the words follow Me. It is written:

FOLLOW ME
DENY SELF
(New Testament verses show clearly, that all that are called of God to be saved are to follow Jesus)
Even though many indicate they are saved, their attitude, the things they do and say, and their
unchildlikeness to correction indicates they are really reprobate
(Some New Testament Scriptures that also show that all that are called of God are to deny themselves)
    The words Follow Me appear in the New Testament about 19 times.
    Mt 4:18–19, 21,22–AND JESUS, WALKING BY THE SEA OF GALILEE, SAW TWO BRETHREN, SIMON CALLED PETER, AND ANDREW HIS BROTHER, CASTING A NET INTO THE SEA: FOR THEY WERE FISHERS. AND HE SAITH UNTO THEM, FOLLOW ME, AND I WILL MAKE YOU FISHERS OF MEN. AND GOING ON FROM THENCE, HE SAW OTHER TWO BRETHREN, JAMES THE SON OF ZEBEDEE, AND JOHN HIS BROTHER, IN A SHIP WITH ZEBEDEE THEIR FATHER, MENDING THEIR NETS; AND HE CALLED THEM. AND THEY IMMEDIATELY LEFT THE SHIP AND THEIR FATHER, AND FOLLOWED HIM.
    Mt 8:21–22–AND ANOTHER OF HIS DISCIPLES SAID UNTO HIM, LORD, SUFFER ME FIRST TO GO AND BURY MY FATHER. BUT JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME; AND LET THE DEAD BURY THEIR DEAD.
    Mt 9:9–AND AS JESUS PASSED FORTH FROM THENCE, HE SAW A MAN, NAMED MATTHEW, SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM: AND HE SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME. AND HE AROSE, AND FOLLOWED HIM.
    Mt 16:24–THEN SAID JESUS UNTO HIS DISCIPLES, IF ANY MAN WILL COME AFTER ME, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF, AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME.
    Mt 19:21–22–JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, IF THOU WILT BE PERFECT, GO AND (1) SELL THAT THOU HAST, AND GIVE TO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND (2) COME AND FOLLOW ME. BUT WHEN THE YOUNG MAN HEARD THAT SAYING, HE WENT AWAY SORROWFUL: FOR HE HAD GREAT POSSESSIONS.
    Mk 2:14–AND AS HE PASSED BY, HE SAW LEVI THE SON OF ALPHAEUS SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM, AND SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME. AND HE AROSE AND FOLLOWED HIM.
    Mk 8:34–AND WHEN HE HAD CALLED THE PEOPLE UNTO HIM WITH HIS DISCIPLES ALSO, HE SAID UNTO THEM, WHOSOEVER WILL COME AFTER ME, LET HIM DENY HIMSELF, AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME.
    Mk 10:21–24–THEN JESUS BEHOLDING HIM LOVED HIM, AND SAID UNTO HIM, ONE THING THOU LACKEST: GO THY WAY, SELL WHATSOEVER THOU HAST, AND GIVE TO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND COME, TAKE UP THE CROSS, AND FOLLOW ME. AND HE WAS SAD AT THAT SAYING, AND WENT AWAY GRIEVED: FOR HE HAD GREAT POSSESSIONS. AND JESUS LOOKED ROUND ABOUT, AND SAITH UNTO HIS DISCIPLES, HOW HARDLY SHALL THEY THAT HAVE RICHES ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD!.HOW HARD IS IT FOR THEM THAT TRUST IN RICHES TO ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD!
    Lk 5:27–AND AFTER THESE THINGS HE WENT FORTH, AND SAW A PUBLICAN, NAMED LEVI, SITTING AT THE RECEIPT OF CUSTOM: AND HE SAID UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
    Lk 9:23–25–AND HE SAID TO THEM ALL, IF ANY MAN WILL COME AFTER ME (or we may say if any man desires to come to Jesus to be saved by faith), LET HIM (1) DENY HIMSELF (which includes repentance), (2) AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS DAILY, (3) AND FOLLOW ME. FOR WHOSOEVER WILL SAVE HIS LIFE SHALL LOSE IT: BUT WHOSOEVER WILL LOSE HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE, THE SAME SHALL SAVE IT. FOR WHAT IS A MAN ADVANTAGED, IF HE GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIMSELF, OR BE CAST AWAY? To loose one’s life is to totally and completely surrender it to Jesus in total trust–to deny oneself. It is to conform to Jesus in all things–attitude, words, and what one does and how they act. It can also mean to be martyred for Christ. Those few that do this shall indeed save their life for eternity. How few there are that have done this. How few there are that meet the following: Ps 50:5–GATHER MY SAINTS TOGETHER UNTO ME; THOSE THAT HAVE MADE A COVENANT WITH ME BY SACRIFICE. There is absolutely no profit or gain but only tragedy even if one gains the whole world, health, fame, notoriety, friends, family, and riches, but then afterwards spends eternity in the lake of fire.
    Lk 9:59–62–AND HE SAID UNTO ANOTHER, FOLLOW ME. BUT HE SAID, LORD, SUFFER ME FIRST TO GO AND BURY MY FATHER. JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, LET THE DEAD BURY THEIR DEAD: BUT GO THOU AND PREACH THE KINGDOM OF GOD. AND ANOTHER ALSO SAID, LORD, I WILL FOLLOW THEE; BUT LET ME FIRST GO BID THEM FAREWELL, WHICH ARE AT HOME AT MY HOUSE. AND JESUS SAID UNTO HIM, NO MAN, HAVING PUT HIS HAND TO THE PLOUGH, AND LOOKING BACK, IS FIT FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD. No person being called of God to surrender, follow, and serve Him, is fit for the kingdom of God if they look back to this world. Remember Lot’s wife. You cannot serve and follow God and money. You cannot serve and follow God and the world also. The two are opposed to each other, so that a person that follows Jesus cannot any longer do and follow those ungodly things he once desired to do. It is written, Gal 5:17–FOR THE FLESH LUSTETH AGAINST THE SPIRIT, AND THE SPIRIT AGAINST THE FLESH: AND THESE ARE CONTRARY THE ONE TO THE OTHER: SO THAT YE CANNOT DO THE THINGS THAT YE WOULD.
    Lk 18:22–NOW WHEN JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, HE SAID UNTO HIM, YET LACKEST THOU ONE THING: SELL ALL THAT THOU HAST, AND DISTRIBUTE UNTO THE POOR, AND THOU SHALT HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN: AND COME, FOLLOW ME.
    Jn 1:43–THE DAY FOLLOWING JESUS WOULD GO FORTH INTO GALILEE, AND FINDETH PHILIP, AND SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
    Jn 10:27–MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME. Those that repent, deny self, trust in and follow Jesus, they can hear God speaking to them. With hearing also comes correctly discerning God’s voice and correctly discerning the devils voice which seeks to mislead a person. These people do follow Jesus.
    Jn 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. Regretfully, there are those that do what appears to be the works of God. They appear to serve God, yet they will not totally surrender themselves and follow Jesus. You shall know them by their fruits.
    Jn 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.
    Jn 21:19–THIS SPAKE HE, SIGNIFYING BY WHAT DEATH HE SHOULD GLORIFY GOD. AND WHEN HE HAD SPOKEN THIS, HE SAITH UNTO HIM, FOLLOW ME.
    He that has ears to hear, let him hear. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:44.                    NOW PHILIP WAS OF BETHSAIDA. It has been indicated that Bethsaida means the house of nets. It is estimated that it was located a few miles northeast of Capernaum on the northern part of the Sea of Galilee. Capernaum is on the northwestern part of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus said of Bethsaida in Mt 11:21 (ref Lk 10:13)–WOE UNTO THEE,…BETHSAIDA! FOR IF THE MIGHTY WORKS, WHICH WERE DONE IN YOU, HAD BEEN DONE IN TYRE AND SIDON, THEY WOULD HAVE REPENTED LONG AGO IN SACKCLOTH AND ASHES. Bethsaida was also–
    THE CITY OF ANDREW AND PETER. Note that Philip, Andrew, and Peter were all from Bethsaida. However, it appears they relocated to Capernaum sometime after–ref Mk 1:21,29.
    10.    Name: Philip (means–“lover of horses”).
             Where from: Bethsaida–Jn 1:44; 12:21.
             Misc: Philip found Nathanael and brought him to Jesus–ref Jn 1:45–51. Jesus found Philip, and said, FOLLOW
             ME–Jn 1:43. In another Scripture, Philip said, LORD, SHOW US THE FATHER, AND IT SUFFICETH US (or
             will be enough for us)–Jn 14:8.

    1.       Name Andrew (means–“manly, conqueror”).
    5.       John * (means–“gift of God”).
    9.       Name: Peter * (means–“stone; rock”)–Mt 16:18.
    10.:    Name Philip (means–“lover of horses”) The verses continue–

    Jn 1:45.                    PHILIP (FOUND) NATHANAEL. When a person truly finds the Christ (God who has come to the earth in human form) they should feel the need to tell the good news to their relatives and friends.
    2.       Name: Bartholomew (means–“son of Tolmai”).
             Also known as: Nathanael–Jn 1:45–49.
             Son of: Tolmai.
             Where from: Cana in Galilee–ref Jn 21:2
             Misc: Philip found Nathanael and brought him to Jesus–ref Jn 1:45–51. Could have been of noble birth. Jesus said
             AN ISRAELITE… IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or nothing false)–Jn 1:47. Was brought to Jesus by Philip–ref
             Jn 1:45. He called Jesus the Son of God in Jn 1:49. PHILIP FOUND NATHANAEL
    AND (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    WE HAVE FOUND HIM (the One),
    OF WHOM MOSES IN THE LAW,
    AND THE PROPHETS, DID WRITE. Philip’s words indicate that he had a good knowledge of the writings of Moses and the prophets. Forecasts of the coming of the Messiah appear in many verses in the Old Testament. Some are listed below:
    Deut 18:15–The LORD THY GOD WILL RAISE UP UNTO THEE A PROPHET FROM THE MIDST OF THEE, OF THY BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO ME; UNTO HIM YE SHALL HEARKEN.
    Deut 18:18–19–I WILL RAISE THEM UP A PROPHET FROM AMONG THEIR BRETHREN, LIKE UNTO THEE, AND WILL PUT MY WORDS IN HIS MOUTH; AND HE SHALL SPEAK UNTO THEM ALL THAT I SHALL COMMAND HIM. AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS, THAT WHOSOEVER WILL NOT HEARKEN UNTO MY WORDS WHICH HE SHALL SPEAK IN MY NAME, I WILL REQUIRE IT OF HIM.
    There are many verses in the Old Testament that show the coming of the Messiah. Listed here are but a few:

JESUS CHRIST IN THE OLD TESTAMENT (A few of the many verses)
MESSIAH IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
    Dan 9:24–26;
    Deut 18:15,18,19;
    Ex 12:46;
    Isa 7:14, 9:6, 49:5–7, 50:6, 52:14, 53:1–12, 61:1,2;
    Mic 5:2;
    Num 9:12; Ps 2:7, 16:10, 22:1, 6–8, 34:20, 35:11, 41:9, 49:15, 69:21,
    Daniel 7:13,14;
    Zech 9:9, 12:10. The verse continues–

    Philip knew and understood the Law. He recognized from these writings who the Messiah was. He said to Nathanael that it was–
    JESUS OF NAZARETH,
    THE SON OF JOSEPH. People in those days did not have last names as people today do. They were often identified by the town or city they were from and by the name of their father. Some might be identified by something they do such as John the Baptist. Jesus is the name that was given to God’s Son by the angel of the Lord–ref Mt 1:20, 21. The name means: HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS–Mt 1:21. Jesus is also called Christ. Christ means the Messiah–ref Jn 1:41.

CHRIST
SOME NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURES USING THE WORD CHRIST
    The word CHRIST is used in the New Testament approximately 555 times.

    The Christ which was to come into the world came to be the saviour. Lk 2:11–FOR UNTO YOU IS BORN THIS DAY IN THE CITY OF DAVID A SAVIOUR, WHICH IS CHRIST THE LORD.

    The Scriptures foretold that Christ world come from the lineage of David and out of the town of Bethlehem. Jn 7:42–HATH NOT THE SCRIPTURE SAID, THAT CHRIST COMETH OF THE SEED OF DAVID, AND OUT OF THE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM, WHERE DAVID WAS?

    The Christ is the Son of God. Jn 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.

    Jesus Christ came to gave Grace and Truth. Jn 1:17–FOR THE LAW WAS GIVEN BY MOSES, BUT GRACE AND TRUTH CAME BY JESUS CHRIST.

    Justification, redemption and salvation does not come through any way or any person except Christ Jesus. Ro 3:24–BEING JUSTIFIED FREELY BY HIS GRACE THROUGH THE REDEMPTION THAT IS IN CHRIST JESUS.

    Justification is only through Jesus Christ. Peace with God only comes through Jesus Christ. Ro 5:1–THEREFORE BEING JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, WE HAVE PEACE WITH GOD THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST:

    When a person truly finds Christ which also means the Messiah, his desire is to find his relatives and friends and help them also find Christ. Jn 1:41–HE FIRST FINDETH HIS OWN BROTHER SIMON, AND SAITH UNTO HIM, WE HAVE FOUND THE MESSIAS, WHICH IS, BEING INTERPRETED, THE CHRIST.

    Again we see that the words Messiah and Christ are interchangeable. Jn 4:25–THE WOMAN SAITH UNTO HIM, I KNOW THAT MESSIAS COMETH, WHICH IS CALLED CHRIST: WHEN HE IS COME, HE WILL TELL US ALL THINGS.

    Christ knows all things. Jn 4:29–COME, SEE A MAN, WHICH TOLD ME ALL THINGS THAT EVER I DID: IS NOT THIS THE CHRIST?

    God saves people through the Words of Christ, through the words of the Gospel. Jesus Christ is the Saviour of the world. Jn 4:42–AND SAID UNTO THE WOMAN, NOW WE BELIEVE, NOT BECAUSE OF THY SAYING: FOR WE HAVE HEARD HIM OURSELVES, AND KNOW THAT THIS IS INDEED THE CHRIST, THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD.
    1 Cor 1:21–FOR…IT PLEASED GOD BY THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING TO SAVE THEM THAT BELIEVE.
    1 Cor 1:21–FOR AFTER THAT IN THE WISDOM OF GOD THE WORLD BY WISDOM KNEW NOT GOD, IT PLEASED GOD BY THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING TO SAVE THEM THAT BELIEVE. Ro 10:17–SO THEN FAITH COMETH BY HEARING, AND HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD. The Word of God is what we are to preach. Worldly stores about ourselves or others, while they sound nice, can not build our faith.
    The things that happened to Christ were fore told before they ever happened. Acts 26:22–23–HAVING THEREFORE OBTAINED HELP OF GOD, I CONTINUE UNTO THIS DAY, WITNESSING…, SAYING NONE OTHER THINGS THAN THOSE WHICH THE PROPHETS AND MOSES DID SAY SHOULD COME: THAT CHRIST SHOULD SUFFER, AND THAT HE SHOULD BE THE FIRST THAT SHOULD RISE FROM THE DEAD, AND SHOULD SHEW LIGHT UNTO THE PEOPLE, AND TO THE GENTILES.

    The Gospel which we preach is of Christ. Ro 1:16–FOR I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST: FOR IT IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH; TO THE JEW FIRST, AND ALSO TO THE GREEK.

    Anyone that does not have the Spirit of God inside them, is not saved. A person can receive the Spirit of God only through faith (or trust) in Jesus Christ. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness. Ro 8:9–BUT YE ARE NOT IN THE FLESH, BUT IN THE SPIRIT, IF SO BE THAT THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELL IN YOU. NOW IF ANY MAN HAVE NOT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS. Ro 8:10–AND IF CHRIST BE IN YOU, THE BODY IS DEAD BECAUSE OF SIN; BUT THE SPIRIT IS LIFE BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. Ro 10:4–FOR CHRIST IS THE END OF THE LAW FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH. To believe–a total uncompromising commitment of love and obedience. To believe is to trust.

    Everyone that is truly in Christ is part of one body, one family. All are members one of another. All are brothers and sisters in Christ. All have one Father which is in heaven. A person that is not of that body, of that group is not truly saved. Ro 12:5–SO WE, BEING MANY, ARE ONE BODY IN CHRIST, AND EVERY ONE MEMBERS ONE OF ANOTHER.

    If a person is truly saved, they are of the body of Christ and belong to Christ. They do not belong to themselves for it is written. Mk 9:41–YE BELONG TO CHRIST.

    Through the prophets in the Old Testament, it can be proven beyond any doubt that Jesus is the Christ. Acts 9:22–BUT SAUL…CONFOUNDED THE JEWS.PROVING THAT THIS IS VERY CHRIST. Acts 18:28–FOR HE MIGHTILY CONVINCED THE JEWS, AND THAT PUBLICKLY, SHEWING BY THE SCRIPTURES THAT JESUS WAS CHRIST.

    The world then as today hates Christ and accuses Him and His followers. They see things or hear things which they do not understand, and then make up stories and come to false conclusions. Then they begin to falsely accuse. Lk 23:2–AND THEY BEGAN TO ACCUSE HIM, SAYING, WE FOUND THIS FELLOW PERVERTING THE NATION, AND FORBIDDING TO GIVE TRIBUTE TO CAESAR, SAYING THAT HE HIMSELF IS CHRIST A KING.

    The world then as today wants to wipe out the name of Jesus Christ. Those that follow Christ can expect many problems such as threats and jail. The world does not want the name of Jesus and the truth to spread. Acts 4:1–3–AND AS THEY SPAKE UNTO THE PEOPLE, THE PRIESTS, AND THE CAPTAIN OF THE TEMPLE, AND THE SADDUCEES, CAME UPON THEM, BEING GRIEVED THAT THEY TAUGHT.AND PREACHED THROUGH JESUS THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD. AND THEY…PUT THEM IN HOLD (or in jail). The next day after being put in jail the apostles were threatened and warned to not preach in the name of Jesus. Acts 4:17–18–BUT THAT IT SPREAD NO FURTHER…LET US STRAITLY THREATEN THEM, THAT THEY SPEAK HENCEFORTH TO NO MAN IN THIS NAME. AND THEY CALLED THEM, AND COMMANDED THEM NOT TO SPEAK AT ALL NOR TEACH IN THE NAME OF JESUS. However, the apostles did not obey. Again they were put in prison but God rescued them. Again they were confronted by the religious leaders. Acts 5:28–SAYING, DID NOT WE STRAITLY COMMAND YOU THAT YE SHOULD NOT TEACH IN THIS NAME? AND, BEHOLD, YE HAVE FILLED JERUSALEM WITH YOUR DOCTRINE. In these latter days, many false religions are now being accepted, even those that advocate violence, but the world wants to stamp out the teachings of Christ which offends people–ref Mt 11:6, 13:57, 15:12, 24:10, and Mk 6:3. Then as today the world wants to stamp out the truth, the name of Jesus, the ten commandments and things related to these. In these latter days of the last days, the stage is being set for the rise of the antichrist.

    Then, as today, rulers and high officials are against God and His Christ. Acts 4:26–THE KINGS OF THE EARTH STOOD UP, AND THE RULERS WERE GATHERED TOGETHER AGAINST THE LORD, AND AGAINST HIS CHRIST.

    Even when he was dying on the cross, the people and rulers mocked Him. Lk 23:35–AND THE PEOPLE STOOD BEHOLDING. AND THE RULERS ALSO WITH THEM DERIDED HIM, SAYING, HE SAVED OTHERS; LET HIM SAVE HIMSELF, IF HE BE CHRIST, THE CHOSEN OF GOD.

    Christ was born to suffer and die on the cross to pay the sin debt for all that would trust in Him. This was fore told in the Scriptures by Moses and the prophets. As Christ suffered, so do those that follow Him. As Christ was and is hated, so are those that truly follow Him. Lk 24:26, 27–OUGHT NOT CHRIST TO HAVE SUFFERED THESE THINGS, AND TO ENTER INTO HIS GLORY? AND BEGINNING AT MOSES AND ALL THE PROPHETS, HE EXPOUNDED UNTO THEM IN ALL THE SCRIPTURES THE THINGS CONCERNING HIMSELF. Lk 24:46–AND SAID UNTO THEM, THUS IT IS WRITTEN, AND THUS IT BEHOVED CHRIST TO SUFFER, AND TO RISE FROM THE DEAD THE THIRD DAY Jn 15:20, 21–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. BUT ALL THESE THINGS WILL THEY DO UNTO YOU FOR MY NAME’S SAKE, BECAUSE THEY KNOW NOT HIM THAT SENT ME. Acts 3:18–BUT THOSE THINGS, WHICH GOD BEFORE HAD SHEWED BY THE MOUTH OF ALL HIS PROPHETS, THAT CHRIST SHOULD SUFFER, HE HATH SO FULFILLED. Jn 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.

    The Scriptures fore told of the resurrection. Acts 2:31–HE SEEING THIS BEFORE SPAKE OF THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST, THAT HIS SOUL WAS NOT LEFT IN HELL, NEITHER HIS FLESH DID SEE CORRUPTION.

    If a person truly finds Christ, (of we may say Christ finds them), they will give their lives for Him. Of the 12 apostles, it appears that 11 were martyred. As Jesus was, so are those in this world that follow Him. Many missionaries these days, which you may seldom hear about, are being killed. It is written in Acts 15:26–MEN THAT HAVE HAZARDED THEIR LIVES FOR THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. The verses continue–

    Jn 1:46.                    AND NATHANAEL SAID (TO) HIM,
    CAN THERE ANY GOOD THING
    COME OUT OF NAZARETH? Initially skepticism or doubts came into Nathanael’s thoughts. The reason for those doubts was because the town of Nazareth was mentioned. This is a familiar tactic Satan uses in our thoughts–ref Gen 3:1 when there is something we do not understand, or some prejudices and wrong thinking enters our minds.
    The Old Testament indicates that the Messiah should come out of Judah–ref Mic 5:2, and Bethlehem–ref Mic 5:2. No mention is made regarding the Messiah coming out of Nazareth.
    As one looks back regarding all the apostles, Nathanael, perhaps more than any other, displayed doubts regarding Jesus being the Messiah initially.

NAZARETH
    This town is of such little significance, that it does not appear to be mentioned in the Old Testament. It is reported that Nazareth, in the Galilee, had a bad reputation. It appears that Roman troops were stationed there and there were collaborators among the people. Among other people in the Galilee, Nazareth was looked down on. Also among the chief priests and Pharisees, Galilee itself was looked down on–ref Jn 7:52. Paul was spoken about in contempt in Acts 24:5 being accused of being a ringleader of the cult or sect of the Nazarenes. About 34 months later, in Jn 7:52, even the Pharisees said: SEARCH, AND LOOK: FOR OUT OF GALILEE ARISETH NO PROPHET.

RELIGION THAT LEADS TO ETERNAL DAMNATION IS THE MOST
THAT THE MAJORITY OF PEOPLE EVER ATTAIN.
    Without the Holy Spirit granting a person understanding of God’s Word in their heart, plus repentance,
    and without a person having a good, or good and honest heart after hearing and understanding, God’s Word
    the most a person can ultimately attain is being religious but without being truly born again through Jesus Christ.
    Such a person cannot bring forth fruit to perfection with patience, that remains–some thirtyfold, some sixtyfold and some an hundredfold.
    Such people, at the most, can only understand, believe, or bear fruit for a time, but then fall, or wither away, or are choked as Satan uses various devices of this world or things in their hearts to deceive, entice, or scare them–ref Mt 13; Mk 4; Lk 8.
    What a horrible end it is for people as Satan is able to sake away God's Word that was sown in their hearts.
    What a tragedy it is when God tugs on a person’s heart to come and see, but the person refuses.
    The verse continues–
    PHILIP (SAID) (TO) HIM, COME AND SEE. It appears that Philip did not know how to answer Nathanael. Thus, he answered him with the words, “Come and see.“ It appears Nathaniel followed Philip. He went to see for himself. Little could he have understood that he would surrender his life to Jesus Christ and would one day reign with Jesus–ref 2 Tim 2:12; Rev 5:10, 20:6, 22:5. Little do people understand 1 Cor 2:9–AS IT IS WRITTEN, EYE HATH NOT SEEN, NOR EAR HEARD, NEITHER HAVE ENTERED INTO THE HEART OF MAN, THE THINGS WHICH GOD HATH PREPARED FOR THEM THAT LOVE HIM.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 1:47.                    JESUS SAW NATHANAEL
    COMING TO HIM,
    AND (SAID) OF HIM,
    BEHOLD AN ISRAELITE (or true son of Israel–JNT) INDEED,
    IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or deceit, or nothing false)! These words Jesus did not appear to say to Nathaniel but spoke “of” him to those that were with him already. Yet it appears Nathanael heard him. Jesus knew exactly what to say to erase Nathanael–s doubts.
    Jesus said …AN ISRAELITE...IN WHOM IS NO GUILE (or nothing false)–Jn 1:47. Jesus in no way relates that Nathanael was without sin. Rather, this seems to indicate that Nathanael was a sincere and honest person. This is the way Jesus would have us all be. He was not deceitful. It is written: Ro 2:29–BUT HE IS A JEW, WHICH IS ONE INWARDLY; AND CIRCUMCISION IS THAT OF THE HEART, IN THE SPIRIT, AND NOT IN THE LETTER; WHOSE PRAISE IS NOT OF MEN, BUT OF GOD.
    Nathanael should have been a person of few words, straight forward, totally open and honest, and without ulterior or hidden motives, schemes, or excuses. Does this description fit you? Often people do not say what they really mean. They hide certain things. Someone may come to a certain person’s house to see their new baby, but they say they came to get some salt. They have deceptive motives. People often cover up their real intentions by saying something slightly misleading, yet appearing to be sincere. When asked a question they may not lie, but neither do they give the whole truth and nothing but the truth. There is deception in their hearts. People make excuses to justify things they shouldn’t have done. Some say hurtful things to others because they are angry or they give them compliments they might not otherwise do to gain their favor or attention. There is deceit in their hearts. Nathanael did not try to make himself out to be anything other than what he truly was. There are few people indeed that can honestly examine themselves by God’s Word without making alibis. It is a rare person indeed that can quietly, receive correction as a little child, and repent–ref Mt 18:3. Jacob (who became Israel) was known for his subtilty (or deception or trickery)–ref Gen 27:35,36. Jesus, in saying that there was nothing false or deceitful in Nathanael, may have been saying this is the way a true Israelite ought to be. We may ask this question of “you”–how does Jesus characterize you?
    Regarding the name Israel, it is written ref Gen 32:28–THY NAME SHALL BE CALLED NO MORE JACOB, BUT ISRAEL: FOR AS A PRINCE HAST THOU POWER WITH GOD AND WITH MEN, AND HAST PREVAILED.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 1:48.                    NATHANAEL (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    (HOW DO YOU KNOW–JNT) ME? Nathanael appears to have been startled by what he heard Jesus say–
    JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM,
    BEFORE THAT PHILIP CALLED (YOU),
    WHEN (YOU) (WERE) UNDER THE FIG TREE, I SAW (YOU). Note, Jesus said, When you were under the fig tree. It appears that Jesus had knowledge of Nathanael being under a fig tree that no one else could have known. It effected him deeply. Jesus appears to have been exercising the gifts of the Spirit. The words Jesus spoke reveal His divinity.
    Nathanael’s heart had been prepared beforehand by God for this very time.
    The term “under the fig tree” can denote a time to relax and a time of safety. Note 1 Ki 4:25–AND JUDAH AND ISRAEL DWELT SAFELY, EVERY MAN UNDER HIS VINE AND UNDER HIS FIG TREE. Mic 4:4–BUT THEY SHALL SIT EVERY MAN UNDER HIS VINE AND UNDER HIS FIG TREE; AND NONE SHALL MAKE THEM AFRAID. Also ref Zech 3:10.
    Many people think they can hide things from God, but the Scriptures assure us that He knows all things. It is written: Ps 139:2–4–THOU KNOWEST MY DOWNSITTING AND MINE UPRISING, THOU UNDERSTANDEST MY THOUGHT AFAR OFF. THOU COMPASSEST MY PATH AND MY LYING DOWN, AND ART ACQUAINTED WITH ALL MY WAYS. FOR THERE IS NOT A WORD IN MY TONGUE, BUT, LO, O LORD, THOU KNOWEST IT ALTOGETHER.
    The fact that Jesus knew about Nathanael being under the fig tree affected him so much that–

    Jn 1:49.                    NATHANAEL ANSWERED AND (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    RABBI, (YOU) (ARE) THE SON OF GOD. Note, he called Jesus Christ “THE SON OF GOD”, not “a” son of God. In Lk 1:35 about 31 years previously, the angel had used these words when speaking to Mary. In Mt 4:3 and 4:6 about 3 weeks earlier, Satan had used these words. In Jn 1:34, just a few days earlier, John Baptist had used these words. The Old Testament tells us in Ps 2:7–I WILL DECLARE THE DECREE: THE LORD HATH SAID UNTO ME, THOU ART MY SON; THIS DAY HAVE I BEGOTTEN THEE. Ps 2:12–KISS THE SON, LEST HE BE ANGRY, AND YE PERISH FROM THE WAY, WHEN HIS WRATH IS KINDLED BUT A LITTLE. BLESSED ARE ALL THEY THAT PUT THEIR TRUST IN HIM. Also the millennium verse–Ps 72:1: GIVE THE KING THY JUDGMENTS, O GOD, AND THY RIGHTEOUSNESS UNTO THE KING’S SON.
    Nathanael is the first of those that would become apostles to use these words. He also said–
    (YOU) (ARE) THE KING OF ISRAEL. This is the first time the word’s KING OF ISRAEL are used in the New Testament chronologically. They were also used by much people about 4 days before Jesus was crucified as He was entering Jerusalem–ref Jn 12:13.. These words were used mockingly by the chief priests, the scribes, and elders when He was hanging on the cross–ref Mt 27:42 and Mk 15:32.
    Israel was not expecting the Messiah to be one that would die on the cross. They were expecting Him to come and restore the kingdom to Israel and to reign as King of kings–ref Acts 1:6. Israel at the time of Jesus was under Roman control.

NATHANAEL’S VIEW OF JESUS VERSES THE OTHERS
HOW GOD’S WORD AFFECTS SOME PEOPLE
GOD’S WORD
    When Nathanael heard the words of Jesus, he saw THE SON OF GOD, THE KING OF ISRAEL. When the religious leaders seen and heard Jesus, they seemed to see nothing–except one that was interfering with them that needed to be eliminated. Such is the world today as they try to hinder and eliminate His Word as well as the ten commandments. Why do people try to eliminate God’s Word? It is written in Heb 4:12–FOR THE WORD OF GOD IS QUICK, AND POWERFUL, AND SHARPER THAN ANY TWOEDGED SWORD, PIERCING EVEN TO THE DIVIDING ASUNDER OF SOUL AND SPIRIT, AND OF THE JOINTS AND MARROW, AND IS A DISCERNER OF THE THOUGHTS AND INTENTS OF THE HEART. When some people hear God’s Word they can react with hate and bitterness. Some tremble at His Word. Some begin to shake. To some those that bring forth God’s Word, they ARE THE SAVOUR OF DEATH UNTO DEATH; AND TO THE OTHER THE SAVOUR OF LIFE UNTO LIFE–ref 2 Cor 2:16.

FASCINATIN
KING OF ISRAEL
KING OF THE JEWS
    The term KING OF ISRAEL as applied to Jesus was used by the Angel, Nathanael, much people (Jews), the chief priests, scribes, and elders–all were Jews. However when the chief priests and scribes used this term when Jesus was hanging on the cross, they did not use it openly as there were Roman soldiers near by. They used this term only among themselves. It might have been consider treason to use the term Israel or King of Israel, especially if they were overhead by the Romans.
    Regarding the Political structure, the governor Pilate and the soldiers used the term KING OF THE “JEWS”. Israel as an independent state did not exist and had not existed for hundreds of years. It was, at this time, under Roman control. The superscription that was written by Pilate and put on the cross when Jesus was crucified was not the King of Israel but rather THE KING OF THE JEWS. Pilate asked Jesus if he were the King of the Jews and other references–ref Mt 27:11, Mk 15:2,9,12. The soldiers used the term King of the Jews mockingly–ref Mt 27:29, Mk 15:18, and Lk 23:37.
    When Jesus was accused before Pilate by multitudes, His accusers did not use the term King of Israel, but CHRIST A KING–ref Lk 23:1,2. Jesus admitted he was a King born to this end–Jn 18:37. The chief priests and multitudes obviously were afraid to use the term King of Israel when they accused Jesus and talked before the governor as they might have themselves been arrested–also note Jn 19:21.
    The term King of Israel is never used in the New Testament after Jesus was crucified, but it is used in the Old Testament during the Millennium–ref Isa 44:6. Jesus, during the millennial reign, shall reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords–ref Rev 17:14. David shall be the king of Israel and the 12 apostles shall judge the 12 tribes of Israel–ref Mt 19:28.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 1:50.                    JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM,
    BECAUSE I SAID (TO) (YOU),
    I SAW (YOU) UNDER THE FIG TREE, (DO YOU BELIEVE) (all this)?
    (YOU) (SHALL) SEE GREATER THINGS THAN THESE. Jesus was probably referring to the many miracles He would do during the next 3 plus years. He may also have been referring to the distant future as depicted in the next verse.
    Jesus knew from the beginning who his apostles would be. He knew who believed and who believed not. He also knew who would ultimately betray Him–ref Jn 6:64.

    Jn 1:51.                    AND HE (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    VERILY, VERILY (or yes indeed) (or most assuredly),
    I SAY (TO) YOU (the truth). These words are used only in John’s Gospel. They appear approximately 25 times. These words were used by Jesus when He wanted to stress the importance of certain words. Perhaps the best example of this in the 4 Gospels is Jn 3:3–JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM, VERILY, VERILY (or yes, indeed), I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth), (UNLESS) A MAN BE BORN AGAIN (from above), HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD. The very important words that Jesus spoke in this verse are these–
    HEREAFTER. In other words, the events that Jesus is about to describe are at a later date. HEREAFTER–
    (YOU) SHALL SEE
    HEAVEN OPEN. These two words also appear in Rev 11:19. Heavens opened appear in Mk 1:10 and Acts 7"56. This is the first event. Jesus continued by saying–
    AND THE ANGELS OF GOD
    (GOING UP) AND
    (COMING DOWN). First the heaven opens, and then the angels of God will be seen going up and coming down–
    UPON THE SON OF MAN. The time period referred to here is when Jesus Christ reigns and rules as the King of kings and Lord of Lords after He returns at the time of Armageddon. This is immediately after the tribulation of those days. Note the son of man commentary.

SON OF MAN
    The term “SON OF MAN” is used approximately 92 times in the New Testament.
    Jesus used the term SON OF MAN numerous times in each of the 4 Gospels when referring to himself. This is the first verse in the New Testament chronologically that use these words. This term is used twice in the Revelation by John. Steven used this term just before he was killed. The apostles, however, may have never used these words when referring to Jesus while He was alive on the earth.
    Jesus was now telling Nathaniel the future. At the time of Armageddon, immediately after the tribulation of those days, the heaven will open and Jesus Christ will return. He will begin His reign on the earth as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We call this the millennium–ref Rev 20:3–7. It is at this time the events Jesus told Nathaniel he would see, shall begin to come to pass. In telling Nathanael these words it reveals He knew in advance those that would become His disciples and Nathanael was one of them. Note Rev 19:11 which takes place as Jesus returns at the time of Armageddon–AND I SAW “HEAVEN OPENED”, AND BEHOLD A WHITE HORSE; AND HE THAT SAT UPON HIM WAS CALLED FAITHFUL AND TRUE, AND IN RIGHTEOUSNESS HE DOTH JUDGE AND MAKE WAR.
    Some believe Nathanael might have been thinking about Jacob’s ladder when he was under the fig tree, thus prompting Jesus to tell of this futuristic event–ref Gen 28:11–13. Gen 28:12–AND HE DREAMED, AND BEHOLD A LADDER SET UP ON THE EARTH, AND THE TOP OF IT REACHED TO HEAVEN: AND BEHOLD THE ANGELS OF GOD ASCENDING AND DESCENDING ON IT. Jesus Himself is the way or ladder to heaven. Some people try to climb up another way–ref Mt 22:12. Jesus is also the ladder between God and man. John Baptist (ref Jn 1:34) and Nathanael called Jesus Christ the Son of God. Jesus referred to himself as the Son of man in Jn 1:51. The verses continue–





    Jn 2:1.                    AND (on) THE THIRD DAY. This may have been the 3rd day after the meeting with Nathanael. This would have allowed them time to walk to their next destination. At that time–
    THERE WAS A MARRIAGE (or wedding). The Scriptures do not give us any indication whose wedding it may have been. Because Mary, Jesus and Jesus’ disciples were all invited, the marriage may have involved a close relative or friend. The wedding took place–
    IN CANA OF GALILEE. Cana is located only a few miles northeast of Nazareth. Nathanael was also from Cana. It is believed that the current town of Cana is near the original town. It is reported that there was also another town named Cana in Asher, thus this Cana was referred to as Cana of Galilee. The verse continues–
    AND THE MOTHER OF JESUS WAS THERE. Such a wedding could last a week. In John’s Gospel, the name of Mary, as relating to the mother of Jesus is never used. It appears that the mother of Jesus had been there for some time, perhaps a day or more helping with the preparations.

MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS
MARY, THE MOTHER OF GOD IS VERY INCORRECT
    A certain very misguided religion calls Mary–the mother of God. The words Mother of God do not appear anywhere in the Bible. Jesus Christ, who is God, has no mother–note Heb 7:3. Jesus Christ who came to this earth in human form was fully God and fully man. He is from everlasting to everlasting. He does not have beginning of days, nor end of life. She is not the mother of God. She did not create God. God created her and all things. The human body that Christ–the man child used while he was upon the earth is what Mary gave birth to. She is the mother of Jesus, not the mother of God. The verses continue–

    Jn 2:2.                    AND BOTH JESUS WAS (INVITED),
    AND HIS DISCIPLES. At this time Jesus did not yet have all 12 of the apostles. Those He did have were also invited. This probably included the 5 that were already mentioned or alluded to in previous verses: Andrew, John, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew). How they were all invited is unknown since His disciples had just joined him. It may have been that He had stopped at Nazareth shortly before, and the invitation had gone out to Jesus and any and all that were with Him. Nathanael was also from Cana. These were all invited–
    TO THE MARRIAGE (or wedding). Up to this time Jesus had done no miracles.

MARRIAGE
LIVING TOGETHER WITHOUT BEING MARRIED IS SIN
HOMOSEXUALS
GAYS
    Marriage is of God. Jesus was there and approved of marriage. Living together, however, is not a marriage–ref Jn 4:16–18. It is sin. In addition, a person that is an obedient follower of God’s Word is only at liberty to marry someone in the Lord–ref 1 Cor 7:39. A marriage consists of one woman and one man as it is written–Gen 2:23,24–she shall be called Woman,…Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife (not wives. It is singular): and they shall be one flesh.
    Such things as a man with a man or woman with a woman reveals a reprobate mind as it is written–Ro 1:21,22,24–32–THEY…BECAME VAIN IN THEIR IMAGINATIONS, AND THEIR FOOLISH HEART WAS DARKENED. …THEY BECAME FOOLS,…WHEREFORE GOD ALSO GAVE THEM UP TO UNCLEANNESS THROUGH THE LUSTS OF THEIR OWN HEARTS, TO DISHONOUR THEIR OWN BODIES BETWEEN THEMSELVES: WHO CHANGED THE TRUTH OF GOD INTO A LIE,…GOD GAVE THEM UP UNTO VILE AFFECTIONS: FOR EVEN THEIR WOMEN DID CHANGE THE NATURAL USE INTO THAT WHICH IS AGAINST NATURE: AND LIKEWISE ALSO THE MEN, LEAVING THE NATURAL USE OF THE WOMAN, BURNED IN THEIR LUST ONE TOWARD ANOTHER; MEN WITH MEN WORKING THAT WHICH IS UNSEEMLY, AND RECEIVING IN THEMSELVES THAT RECOMPENCE OF THEIR ERROR WHICH WAS MEET. AND EVEN AS THEY DID NOT LIKE TO RETAIN GOD IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE, GOD GAVE THEM OVER TO A REPROBATE MIND, TO DO THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT CONVENIENT; BEING FILLED WITH ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS, FORNICATION, WICKEDNESS,… BACKBITERS, HATERS OF GOD, DESPITEFUL,…WITHOUT UNDERSTANDING,…WITHOUT NATURAL AFFECTION, WHO KNOWING THE JUDGMENT OF GOD, THAT THEY WHICH COMMIT SUCH THINGS ARE WORTHY OF DEATH, NOT ONLY DO THE SAME, BUT HAVE PLEASURE IN THEM THAT DO THEM.
    Nevertheless, God in His mercy has saved people that were once homosexuals but repented as God gave them understanding.
   They, in return, have been used by God as living witnesses to other homosexuals that mistakenly think they cannot change. With God all things are possible. The verses continue–

    Jn 2:3.                    AND WHEN THEY (RAN OUT OF) WINE. It appears whoever had made the arrangements for the wedding, did not estimate how much wine would be needed.
    Often certain situations do happen so that God’s will may be accomplished. In this case–
    THE MOTHER OF JESUS. Note, again the term “Mother of Jesus” is used, not mother of God (Note Jn 2:1). The mother of Jesus–
    (SAID) (TO) HIM,
    THEY HAVE NO (more) WINE. Up to this time, Jesus had done no miracles. Why the mother of Jesus said this to Him or what she expected Him to do is unknown. God undoubtedly put it in Mary’s heart to bring up the wine situation, thus setting up the conditions that He would perform His first miracle.
    The Bible speaks against and condemns drunkenness but it does not speak against drinking wine in moderation, except in special situations.

DRINKING
DRUNKENNESS
INTOXICATING
    Regarding the subject of drinking, drunkenness or excessive drinking, it is written:
    Pv 20:1–WINE IS A MOCKER, STRONG DRINK IS RAGING: AND WHOSOEVER IS DECEIVED THEREBY IS NOT WISE.
    Pv 23:29–32, 34,35–WHO HATH WOE? WHO HATH SORROW? WHO HATH CONTENTIONS? WHO HATH BABBLING? WHO HATH WOUNDS WITHOUT CAUSE? WHO HATH REDNESS OF EYES? THEY THAT TARRY LONG AT THE WINE; THEY THAT GO TO SEEK MIXED WINE. LOOK NOT THOU UPON THE WINE WHEN IT IS RED, WHEN IT GIVETH HIS COLOUR IN THE CUP, WHEN IT MOVETH ITSELF ARIGHT. AT THE LAST IT BITETH LIKE A SERPENT, AND STINGETH LIKE AN ADDER. YEA, THOU SHALT BE AS HE THAT LIETH DOWN IN THE MIDST OF THE SEA, OR AS HE THAT LIETH UPON THE TOP OF A MAST. THEY HAVE STRICKEN ME, SHALT THOU SAY, AND I WAS NOT SICK; THEY HAVE BEATEN ME, AND I FELT IT NOT: WHEN SHALL I AWAKE? I WILL SEEK IT YET AGAIN.
    Eph 5:18–AND BE NOT DRUNK WITH WINE, WHEREIN IS EXCESS.
    Nahum 1:10–FOR WHILE THEY BE FOLDEN TOGETHER AS THORNS, AND WHILE THEY ARE DRUNKEN AS DRUNKARDS, THEY SHALL BE DEVOURED.
    Hab 2:15–WOE UNTO HIM THAT GIVETH HIS NEIGHBOUR DRINK, THAT PUTTEST THY BOTTLE TO HIM, AND MAKEST HIM DRUNKEN ALSO.
    The Bible warns and condemns eating and drinking with the drunken.
    Mt 24:49–51–(Those that) SHALL BEGIN…TO EAT AND DRINK WITH THE DRUNKEN; THE LORD OF THAT SERVANT SHALL COME IN A DAY WHEN HE LOOKETH NOT FOR HIM,…AND SHALL CUT HIM ASUNDER, AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE HYPOCRITES: THERE SHALL BE WEEPING AND GNASHING OF TEETH.
    1 Cor 11:21–FOR IN EATING EVERY ONE TAKETH BEFORE OTHER HIS OWN SUPPER: AND ONE IS HUNGRY, AND ANOTHER IS DRUNKEN.
    Pv 20:1–WINE IS A MOCKER, STRONG DRINK IS RAGING: AND WHOSOEVER IS DECEIVED THEREBY IS NOT WISE.
    But know this–any drinking may put a stumbling block or offend thy brother in Christ or put a stumbling block in front of him. Paul wrote in 1 Cor 8:13–WHEREFORE, IF MEAT MAKE MY BROTHER TO OFFEND, I WILL EAT NO FLESH WHILE THE WORLD STANDETH, LEST I MAKE MY BROTHER TO OFFEND.
    Luke’s Gospel tells us in 17:2–IT WERE BETTER FOR HIM THAT A MILLSTONE WERE HANGED ABOUT HIS NECK, AND HE CAST INTO THE SEA, THAN THAT HE SHOULD OFFEND ONE OF THESE LITTLE ONES.
    Regarding the judgment it is written Mt 13:41–THE SON OF MAN SHALL SEND FORTH HIS ANGELS, AND THEY SHALL GATHER OUT OF HIS KINGDOM ALL THINGS THAT OFFEND, AND THEM WHICH DO INIQUITY.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:4.                    (And) JESUS (SAID) (TO) HER,
    (Dear) WOMAN. Jesus did not call her mother, but rather woman. Jesus continued by saying–
    WHAT HAVE I TO DO WITH (YOU) (or why do you involve Me–NIV, or what does your concern have to do with Me–NKJV)? The manner in which Jesus spoke, sounds as if He is distancing Himself from this matter and from His mother. He was no longer under the rule or authority of His mother or Joseph, but under submission and under the authority of His Father in heaven. It is the voice of His Father in Heaven that Jesus must follow, not someone else. A certain false religion, whose people are being led down the road to hell, should take note of this. Mary is not and has never been a mediator between Christ and mankind.
    This is further confirmed when His mother and family came and desired to speak to Him later on. Jesus replied to those that brought the message–MY MOTHER AND MY BRETHREN ARE THESE WHICH HEAR THE WORD OF GOD, AND DO IT–ref Mt 12:46–50 and Lk 8:20,21. And at another time when the Jews feast of tabernacles was at hand. His brethren (brothers) tried to tell Him what to do. Jesus would not obey them as He said GO YE UP UNTO THIS FEAST: I GO NOT UP YET UNTO THIS FEAST; FOR MY TIME IS NOT YET FULL COME–ref Jn 7:8.

DECEIVE
ADVICE, BEWARE
COUNSELING, BEWARE
BEWARE OF ADVICE FROM THE UNSAVED AS WELL AS MANY SAVED
    As a person would study the 4 Gospels, they should find that much which was said to Jesus by the unbelievers was wrong and out of the will of God. There were many examples when His own disciples told Him or others what to do that was also wrong and out of the will of God. Some examples of these are Mk 6:35,36–His followers wanted Him to send many people away. They were wrong. Mk 10:13,14–His followers wanted to stop the little children coming to Him. They were wrong. Mk 10:48–many of His followers told blind Bartimaeus to be still. Again they were wrong. In this lukewarm generation we now live, the ungodly advice that is given to the followers of Jesus by unbelievers and even other followers of Christ and carnal ministers abounds. Obey God’s Word. It needs to be said again–Obey God’s Word. Also, Heb 13:17–(those whose faith and fruits testify that they are spiritual, God fearing leaders that labour in the Word and doctrine) OBEY THEM THAT HAVE THE RULE OVER YOU, AND SUBMIT YOURSELVES: FOR THEY WATCH FOR YOUR SOULS, AS THEY THAT MUST GIVE ACCOUNT, THAT THEY MAY DO IT WITH JOY, AND NOT WITH GRIEF: FOR THAT IS UNPROFITABLE FOR YOU.
    As the verse continues, Jesus went on to say–
    (MY) (TIME) IS NOT YET COME. His mother would not have understood what He was talking about at this time. Jesus’ ministry had already begun. In saying these 6 words, He was speaking in the context that He was the Christ, rather than her son. He ultimately was referring to the time He, the Lamb of God, would be offered up for the sins of all that would believe on Him. Jesus appears to be telling His mother he was on His Father’s time schedule, not on hers. Jesus Christ was on a predetermined schedule to the cross.
    About 2 days before being hung on the cross Jesus said in Jn 12:23–THE HOUR IS COME, THAT THE SON OF MAN SHOULD BE GLORIFIED.
    Just hours before being arrested in Jn 13:1–…JESUS KNEW THAT HIS HOUR WAS COME THAT HE SHOULD DEPART OUT OF THIS WORLD UNTO THE FATHER.
    Just before being arrested, Jesus in Jn 17:1–LIFTED UP HIS EYES TO HEAVEN, AND SAID, FATHER, THE HOUR IS COME.

MARY VERSES JESUS
PRAY IN JESUS NAME, NOT MARY
    The mother of Jesus was not without sin as a certain denomination that masquerades as being Christian asserts. Prayers to the virgin Mary are yet but another heresy of the largest–so called–Christian denomination. Prayers to the virgin Mary to tell Jesus Christ what to do in heaven is unthinkable to those that understand God’s Word. Many that study God’s Word little, who have little Godly, Biblical understanding, are easily misled, deceived, duped, and intoxicated or been made drunken with all kinds of unbiblical ideas and doctrines–ref Rev 17:2.
    The thief on the cross and many others did not turn to Mary. They turned to Jesus. The Bible clearly tells us to pray in the name of Jesus, not in the name of Mary or not through Mary. There are none so blind than those that refuse to see. Those that say they see, yet walk in darkness, how great is that darkness–ref Mt 6:23. It is written:
    Jn 14:13–AND WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK IN MY NAME, THAT WILL I DO,
    Mt 18:20–FOR WHERE TWO OR THREE ARE GATHERED TOGETHER IN MY NAME, THERE AM I IN THE MIDST OF THEM.
    Jn 14:14–IF YE SHALL ASK ANY THING IN MY NAME, I WILL DO IT.
    Jn 15:16–WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK OF THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE MAY GIVE IT YOU.
    Jn 16:23–VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE WILL GIVE IT YOU. The verses continue–

    Jn 2:5.                    HIS MOTHER (SAID) (TO) THE SERVANTS,
    (WHATEVER) HE (SAYS) (TO) YOU, DO IT. The words Mary spoke indicates that she had a certain amount of authority and influence at the wedding. This, again, seems to indicate that the wedding was a close relative or friend. She also trusted her son in this situation and stepped aside. The servants that may have come to her, she now directed them to Jesus and away from herself. She communicated to the servants to do what Jesus said to do.
    Mary, the mother of Jesus is mentioned several times after this including being at the cross and with the Apostles after Jesus had gone to be with His Father in Heaven. However, these words in Jn 2:5–WHATEVER HE SAYS TO YOU, DO IT–are the last words recorded in the Bible that she spoke.

MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS
    The name of Mary is never mentioned in the Old Testament, but is very common in the New Testament.
    Mary, who was the mother of Jesus, is first mentioned chronologically in Lk 1:27. (26)–AND IN THE SIXTH MONTH THE ANGEL GABRIEL WAS SENT FROM GOD UNTO A CITY OF GALILEE, NAMED NAZARETH, (27)–TO A VIRGIN ESPOUSED TO A MAN WHOSE NAME WAS JOSEPH, OF THE HOUSE OF DAVID; AND THE VIRGIN’S NAME WAS MARY.
    The mother of Jesus was present at the crucifixion. Jn 19:25–NOW THERE STOOD BY THE CROSS OF JESUS HIS MOTHER, AND HIS MOTHER’S SISTER, MARY THE WIFE OF CLEOPHAS, AND MARY MAGDALENE.
    The last time Jesus is recorded speaking to His mother is in John 19:26–WHEN JESUS THEREFORE SAW HIS MOTHER, AND THE DISCIPLE STANDING BY, WHOM HE LOVED, HE SAITH UNTO HIS MOTHER, WOMAN, BEHOLD THY SON!
    The last time Jesus is recorded speaking about His mother is Jn 19:27–THEN SAITH HE TO THE DISCIPLE, BEHOLD THY MOTHER! AND FROM THAT HOUR THAT DISCIPLE TOOK HER UNTO HIS OWN HOME.
    She is last mentioned in Acts 1:14–THESE ALL CONTINUED WITH ONE ACCORD IN PRAYER AND SUPPLICATION, WITH THE WOMEN, AND MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS, AND WITH HIS BRETHREN.
    Some other verses in Bible that use the name of Mary, who is the mother is Jesus are as follows:
    Mt 1:20; 2:11; 13:55; 27:56. Mt 12:47; Mk 3:32; Lk 8:20; Jn 19:25, 27–Thy mother.
    Mk 6:3; 15:40; 15:47; 16:1
    Lk 1:46; 1:56; 2:5; 2:16; 2:19; 2:34; 24:10
    The name of Mary as referring to the mother of Jesus does not appear to appear in John’s Gospel
    Acts 1:14
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:6.                    AND (nearby)
    THERE WERE SET THERE SIX WATERPOTS. Some denote the number six used here in relation to the number of man. The six waterpots were–
    OF STONE. The stone may represent the law which was written in stone ref Ex 24:12, 31:18, 34:1; Deut 5:22, 9:9–11, 10:4; 2 Cor 3:3. Christ came to fulfill the law–ref Mt 5:17; Ro 2:28,29. The emptiness of Judaism is fulfilled through the power of Christ as the waterpots were filled through His power.
    The six waterpots of stone were–
    AFTER THE MANNER OF THE PURIFYING (or ceremonial washings)
    OF THE JEWS (or for the Jewish custom of purification–NASB). These were man made customs–ref Mt 15:2–7.Note
    Mk 7:3–5–FOR THE PHARISEES, AND ALL THE JEWS, EXCEPT THEY WASH THEIR HANDS OFT, EAT NOT, HOLDING THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS. Mk 7:4–5–AND WHEN THEY COME FROM THE MARKET, EXCEPT THEY WASH, THEY EAT NOT. AND MANY OTHER THINGS THERE BE, WHICH THEY HAVE RECEIVED TO HOLD, AS THE WASHING OF CUPS, AND POTS, BRASEN VESSELS, AND OF TABLES. THEN THE PHARISEES AND SCRIBES ASKED HIM, WHY WALK NOT THY DISCIPLES ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION OF THE ELDERS, BUT EAT BREAD WITH UNWASHEN HANDS?
    The six waterpots–
    CONTAINING TWO OR THREE FIRKINS APIECE (or twenty or thirty gallons each–NASB). Firkins–definition Strong’s concordance–a certain standard measure of capacity for liquids. Some estimate the total amount each could contain was 17 to 27 gallons or could have equaled up to about 150 gallons. Note, that 150 gallons is a large amount.
    It has also been said that these waterpots were used regarding Jewish purification in regards to before and after meals.

PURIFICATION
PURIFICATION OF A BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN
BORN AGAIN
    Regarding the purification of wine, it is sometimes accomplished by pouring it from vessel to vessel over a period of time. As the sediment settles, the wine is poured into a new clean pot or vessel.
    Each person that comes to Christ also needs to go through this process. It is written Lk 5:37,38,36–AND NO MAN PUTTETH NEW WINE INTO OLD BOTTLES; ELSE THE NEW WINE WILL BURST THE BOTTLES, AND BE SPILLED, AND THE BOTTLES SHALL PERISH. BUT NEW WINE MUST BE PUT INTO NEW BOTTLES; AND BOTH ARE PRESERVED. NO MAN PUTTETH A PIECE OF A NEW GARMENT UPON AN OLD; IF OTHERWISE, THEN BOTH THE NEW MAKETH A RENT, AND THE PIECE THAT WAS TAKEN OUT OF THE NEW AGREETH NOT WITH THE OLD.
    Jere 48:11–MOAB HATH BEEN AT EASE FROM HIS YOUTH, AND HE HATH SETTLED ON HIS LEES, AND HATH NOT BEEN EMPTIED FROM VESSEL TO VESSEL, NEITHER HATH HE GONE INTO CAPTIVITY: THEREFORE HIS TASTE REMAINED IN HIM, AND HIS SCENT IS NOT CHANGED.
    So is the case of people that claim they are born again but after many years they have the same attitude and fruits as they did previously. They have gone through no changes.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:7.                    JESUS (SAID) (TO) (THE SERVANTS). The servants obeyed Mary and did what Jesus told them to do. Jesus told them–
    FILL THE WATERPOTS WITH WATER.
    AND THEY FILLED THEM UP
    TO THE BRIM.

    Jn 2:8.                    AND HE (SAID) (TO) THEM,
    DRAW (some) OUT NOW,
    AND (TAKE IT) (TO) THE GOVERNOR (or man in charge)
    OF THE FEAST (or banquet).
    AND THEY (TOOK) IT (to him). Again, they obeyed Jesus. The Bible gives no indication that Jesus spoke or did anything other than telling the servants what to do. Neither He or the servants taste that which was drawn out of the waterpots.

    Jn 2:9.                    WHEN THE RULER (or man in charge)
    OF THE FEAST (or banquet)
    HAD TASTED THE WATER
    THAT (HAD BECOME) WINE. He should have wanted to sample the wine before giving it to the people. It is so sad that most people will not humble themselves and taste of goodness of God and the salvation He offers. The ruler of the feast upon tasting of the water–
    AND KNEW NOT (WHERE) IT WAS (from). The man in charge of the wedding did not know a miracle had been done. As he tasted the water (which had now become wine) he would have expected that it would not have been as good as the first wine that was served and had run out. Regarding where the wine came from–
    (BUT THE SERVANTS WHICH DREW THE WATER KNEW;)
    THE GOVERNOR (or master) OF THE FEAST
    CALLED THE BRIDEGROOM (aside). The bridegroom is not identified. What would have happened if Jesus had not done this miracle? At best, the bridegroom could have been embarrassed that they ran out of wine too soon. Jesus, yesterday and today, did and does both small and huge miracles. He takes care of both little problems and big ones. He helps His servants through little matters and large ones. As the servants obeyed Jesus, so all the follow Him should do the same. Jesus cares about the little things as well as the large things. The governor of the feast called the bridegroom–

    Jn 2:10.                    AND (SAID) (TO) HIM. Keep in mind as the surprised man in charge of the feast talks to the bridegroom, the bridegroom had no knowledge of what had been done. The ruler of the feast said–
    EVERY MAN
    AT (FIRST)
    (BRINGS) FORTH (the) GOOD (or choice) WINE. It was the tradition to always do the finest wine first, as had been done in this case–
    AND (AFTER) MEN HAVE (HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK–NIV),
    THEN THAT WHICH IS (the) WORSE (or cheaper, or inferior). It was done that way because after people had drunk a lot, they would not notice the wine being served later was not as good. The verse continues–
    BUT (YOU) (HAVE) KEPT THE (BEST) WINE UNTIL NOW. Actually, the finest wine was served from the first, however, the water that Jesus turned to wine was even better than the best which was served at the first. One might consider that it could have been the best wine ever seen upon this earth. It was made by the hand of God.
    In like manner, Judaism (or we may say the law), was being fulfilled by that which is the best–Jesus which brought forth “grace”.
    As Jesus turned the water to the best wine, so He can transform people’s lives. He can deliver them from the darkness to the Light.
    It may be noted that Jesus did not begin doing miracles in Jerusalem among the priests, rulers or elite, but rather in a small town among the common people.
    Moses, by the power of God, turned the water into blood–ref Ex 7:17–21. Jesus turned it into wine.

DRINKING
DRUNKENNESS
INTOXICATING
    There is differing opinions among Christians and Bible scholars concerning whether the wine produced by Jesus was the kind that could intoxicate people. The Scriptures have been examined carefully by many (saved and unsaved) in an attempt to rightly divide and understand it. Original Greek, Hebrew, and, Aramaic manuscripts have been checked. The original meanings of words pertaining to this subject have been analyzed and scrutinized. Bible scholars that put aside their preconceived beliefs and emotions are divided regarding this matter.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:11.                    THIS BEGINNING (or first)
    OF MIRACLES (or miraculous signs). This was the first miracle or sign that Jesus did. Some may say that Jesus did miracles before this. This Scripture makes it clear that this is not true.
    The Scriptures tell us that THE JEWS REQUIRE A SIGN, AND THE GREEKS SEEK AFTER WISDOM–1 Cor 1:22.
The verse continues–
    DID JESUS IN CANA. Cana is the name of the town. A town named Cana exists in Israel today. The verse continues–
    OF GALILEE. Galilee is the region or area. Note Jn 2:1 for more information. The verse continues–
    AND (REVEALED) HIS GLORY. Note, it said revealed His glory. It did not say His power. Jesus would ultimately do many miracles. This was the first–
    AND HIS DISCIPLES (PUT THEIR FAITH) (or trust in) HIM. His disciples already trusted Him, but now it appears their trust was increased. This first miracle that Jesus did was a transformation of water into the good or best wine. In like manner a person must be changed, converted, or be born again from the inside–out. His disciples saw this miracle that He had done. They believed. Being born again is a miracle that is only possible through God to them that believe. Undoubtedly, some at the feast never knew that this miracle had been done.

SIGN
SIGNS OR MIRACLES FOR SOME DO NO GOOD
UNDERSTANDING HID FROM THE WISE AND PRUDENT
UNDERSTANDING REVEALED UNTO BABES
SALVATION ONLY POSSIBLE THROUGH GOD’S MERCY–NOT SIGNS
    Regarding the subject of miracles or signs, as mentioned in Jn 2:11, the Bible tells us that: 1 Cor 1:22–THE JEWS REQUIRE A SIGN, AND THE GREEKS SEEK AFTER WISDOM. In keeping with this, it is noted that sometime later: Mt 12:38–CERTAIN OF THE SCRIBES AND OF THE PHARISEES ANSWERED, SAYING, MASTER, WE WOULD SEE A SIGN FROM THEE.
    Mt 12:39–BUT HE ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO THEM, AN EVIL AND ADULTEROUS GENERATION SEEKETH AFTER A SIGN; AND THERE SHALL NO SIGN BE GIVEN TO IT, BUT THE SIGN OF THE PROPHET JONAS. Yet sometime later again in Mt 16:1–THE PHARISEES ALSO WITH THE SADDUCEES CAME, AND TEMPTING DESIRED HIM THAT HE WOULD SHEW THEM A SIGN FROM HEAVEN. Also in Jn 2:18–THEN ANSWERED THE JEWS AND SAID UNTO HIM, WHAT SIGN SHEWEST THOU UNTO US, SEEING THAT THOU DOEST THESE THINGS? Again in Jn 6:30–THEY SAID THEREFORE UNTO HIM, WHAT SIGN SHEWEST THOU THEN, THAT WE MAY SEE, AND BELIEVE THEE? WHAT DOST THOU WORK?
    Jesus raised the dead and healed the sick. He did numerous incredible miracles or signs. Yet only those that God granted repentance to could or would believe. Even so, it is today. The Bible tells us many things that would happen in these latter days which are, indeed, undeniable signs that have just recently come to pass. Why is it then that only a few people come to true biblical repentance and pick up their cross and follow Jesus (or are born–again)? The answer lies in the following verses:
    John 12:37–40–BUT THOUGH HE HAD DONE SO MANY MIRACLES BEFORE THEM, YET THEY BELIEVED NOT ON HIM: 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? THEREFORE THEY COULD NOT BELIEVE, BECAUSE THAT ESAIAS SAID AGAIN, 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. Also it is written: Mt 11:25,26–JESUS…SAID, I THANK THEE, O FATHER, LORD OF HEAVEN AND EARTH, BECAUSE THOU HAST HID THESE THINGS FROM THE WISE AND PRUDENT, AND HAST REVEALED THEM UNTO BABES. EVEN SO, FATHER: FOR SO IT SEEMED GOOD IN THY SIGHT.
    When Jesus was born, the shepherds in the field were told by the angels in Lk 2:12–AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN UNTO YOU; YE SHALL FIND THE BABE WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, LYING IN A MANGER.
    Later, when Simeon seen the Lord’s Christ, it is written in Lk 2:34–AND SIMEON BLESSED THEM, AND SAID UNTO MARY HIS MOTHER, BEHOLD, THIS CHILD IS SET FOR THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL; AND FOR A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST. Note he said: THIS CHILD IS SET…FOR A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKE AGAINST. Millions of people from the past have denied the reality of Jesus Christ coming to this earth in the flesh and billions of people today do the same. As Simeon has said, so it is. You that are reading this, are you one of the skeptics?
    Mt 24:3–AND AS HE (Jesus) SAT UPON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES, THE DISCIPLES CAME UNTO HIM PRIVATELY, SAYING, TELL US, WHEN SHALL THESE THINGS BE? AND WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN OF THY COMING, AND OF THE END OF THE WORLD? Jesus proceeded to give them some key signs and many others, as well as do other Scriptures. Religious deception and the rebirth of Israel are two major ones. Both these prophecies have been fulfilled along with over 300 more since the rebirth of Israel. Despite the overwhelming fulfillment of prophecies in the last 50+ years, the world remains in darkness as to the reality that the rapture will come soon, followed by the revealing of the antichrist, and the tribulation. Then, immediately after the tribulation of those days, comes Armageddon and the return of Jesus Christ in power and great glory. These shall come to pass exactly as predicted. It is written in Dan 12:10–BUT THE WICKED SHALL DO WICKEDLY: AND NONE OF THE WICKED SHALL UNDERSTAND; BUT THE WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND.
    When Jesus is about to return at the time of Armageddon, it is written in Mt 24:30–AND THEN SHALL APPEAR THE SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN HEAVEN: AND THEN SHALL ALL THE TRIBES OF THE EARTH MOURN, AND THEY SHALL SEE THE SON OF MAN COMING IN THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN WITH POWER AND GREAT GLORY.
    Then there is the true story (ref Lk 16:19–31) of the rich man and the beggar named Lazarus. Note, the beggar is actually named. The beggar died and went into Abraham's bosom. The rich man died and went to hell. The rich man was concerned regarding his 5 brethren lest they would also wind up in hell. Then Abraham makes a very direct statement, as he informs the rich man that if they will not be persuaded by hearing the Gospel (that is Moses and the prophets), neither would they be persuaded though one rose from the dead and went to them. To summarize, we might say that if a person’s heart is so hard to the Gospel, they refuse to believe all the Gospel but make excuses, then there is no sign in the world that would persuade them to repent. This is confirmed, as Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead; yet many that actually witnessed it still did not repent. Neither did the religious leaders repent when they heard about it from eye witnesses. Neither did the religious leaders repent when they knew from eye witnesses (the guards) that Jesus had, indeed, been raised from the dead. If God in His mercy does not open up the Scriptures so a person can understand from their heart and grant them repentance, then they are without all hope. Ro 9:14–16–WHAT SHALL WE SAY THEN? IS THERE UNRIGHTEOUSNESS WITH GOD? GOD FORBID. FOR HE SAITH TO MOSES, I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I WILL HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I WILL HAVE COMPASSION. SO THEN IT IS NOT OF HIM THAT WILLETH, NOR OF HIM THAT RUNNETH, BUT OF GOD THAT SHEWETH MERCY.
    So then, the huge number of people that think they are going to heaven, but are in reality in darkness and on their way to hell–it is written–Mt 6:23–IF THEREFORE THE LIGHT THAT IS IN THEE BE DARKNESS, HOW GREAT IS THAT DARKNESS! Ro 10:3,4–FOR THEY BEING IGNORANT OF GOD’S RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND GOING ABOUT TO ESTABLISH THEIR OWN RIGHTEOUSNESS, HAVE NOT SUBMITTED THEMSELVES UNTO THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD. FOR CHRIST IS THE END OF THE LAW FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH.
    The verses continue–



    Jn 2:12.                    AFTER THIS or we may say after the wedding in Cana–
    HE WENT DOWN TO CAPERNAUM.

CAPERNAUM
    Capernaum is mentioned in the New Testament about 16 times. Capernaum is approximately 650 feet below sea level. It is at a much lower elevation than Cana. Thus the word “down” is used. The word “down” does not refer to a direction, such as north or south. It was the home of Peter, Andrew, James, John, and Matthew. It is located on the northwest side of the sea of Galilee and is about 20 miles somewhat east of Cana, as one would drive by car. It has been said that this city was a Roman settlement and ruled over the northern area of Israel. Capernaum was a prosperous city. It is reported that this was a center for trading, as it was situated on several trade routes. The fishing industry flourished there. Peter had apparently moved there from Bethsaida–ref Jn 1:44; Mt 8:5,14. Peter’s wife’s mother was also there. Some say this was regarded as the second home of Jesus–ref Mt 4:13; Mk 1:21; 2:1. He may have spent more time in Capernaum than any other place. It appears that this became the headquarters or center of Jesus’ ministry.
    It was a city of proud and wise people in the ways of this world, but ignorant in the ways of God. It was not a city that would humble itself. Jesus did miracles there that were so great that even Sodom would have repented. They did not repent. Yet Jesus said later of Capernaum, Mt 11:23–AND THOU, CAPERNAUM, WHICH ART EXALTED UNTO HEAVEN, SHALT BE BROUGHT DOWN TO HELL: FOR IF THE MIGHTY WORKS, WHICH HAVE BEEN DONE IN THEE, HAD BEEN DONE IN SODOM, IT WOULD HAVE REMAINED UNTIL THIS DAY. But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee. Jesus said, if they would have repented, they would have remained to this day. Today, Capernaum is mostly deserted; however, it has become a popular tourist destination. There are a number of excavations that have taken place, which reveal some of the city as it was possibly in the times of Christ and after. An ancient synagogue has been partially restored, and a modern church has been built over what is believed by some to be the remains of Peter’s house. People may also take a boat ride on the sea of Galilee to Tiberias from there.
    The message of Capernaum for all of us is this. If we refuse to believe the Word of God, as it was meant to be understood by God, and then also refuse to obey it, then we are in danger of being brought down to hell. Fear God, and depart from evil.
    The verse continues–
    HE, (which is Jesus)–
    AND HIS MOTHER, AND HIS (BROTHERS). Note, Jesus had brothers. It appears He had 4 brothers and 2 or more sisters. It is written in Mk 6:3–IS NOT THIS THE CARPENTER, THE SON OF MARY, THE BROTHER OF (1) JAMES, AND (2) JOSES, AND OF (3) JUDA, AND (4) SIMON? AND ARE NOT HIS SISTERS (note more than one), HERE WITH US? The Old Testament predicts that Mary would have other children: Ps 69:8–I AM BECOME A STRANGER UNTO MY BRETHREN, AND AN ALIEN UNTO MY MOTHER’S CHILDREN. The brothers of Jesus, at this time, did not believe in Him. For it is written in Jn 7:5–FOR NEITHER DID HIS BRETHREN BELIEVE IN HIM.
    A certain “so called” Christian denomination does greatly err and leads many astray. Their Biblically illiterate people seem to love to have it this way until they perish to hell. Their denomination maintains that Mary never had sex with Joseph, her husband and that Jesus never had any brothers or sisters. Thus there was Jesus, Mary, His brothers–
    AND HIS DISCIPLES. Jesus, Mary His mother, perhaps 2 or all 4 brothers, and perhaps 5 disciples went to Capernaum after the wedding. There were perhaps 9 to 11 of them–
    AND THEY CONTINUED THERE (A FEW) DAYS. Jesus’ focal point was now on the ministry which was laid out before Him and training those that followed Him. He would travel to many places, say the words His Father in heaven gave Him to speak, heal the sick, raise the dead, be persecuted and challenged by the religious establishments as well as others, and ultimately give His life a ransom for many–ref Mt 20:28. There are few references to His family and home town of Nazareth.
    The verses continue–





    Jn 2:13.                    AND THE JEWS’ PASSOVER
    WAS AT HAND. Passover celebrates the deliverance of the Jews from being in bondage to slavery in Egypt. The angel of death passed over all houses whose doorways (door posts) were sprinkled with the blood of the passover lamb. Jesus was crucified on Passover 3 years later. He became the Passover Lamb for all that place their trust in Him and are born again.
    The verse continues–
    AND JESUS WENT UP TO JERUSALEM. Jerusalem is at a much higher elevation than Capernaum. Jesus probably went south and downward in elevation from Capernaum along the sea of Galilee, then along the lower Jordan river. When he was in the area of Jericho, he probably turned westward and went “up” in elevation to Jerusalem. Jericho is below sea level, and Jerusalem is about 2700 feet above sea level. Thus, the word “up” is used. The word “down” does not refer to a direction, such as north or south, but rather elevation. Jerusalem would have had many people because of Passover.

PASSOVERS DURING THE 4 GOSPEL TIMES
PASSOVER–5. THERE WAS ONE WHEN HE WAS 12, AND THERE WERE 4 DURING HIS MINISTRY
    The first Passover is recorded in the 4 Gospels. It was when Jesus was 12. He went up to Jerusalem and stayed behind after His mother and Joseph had departed–ref Lk 2:41–51.
    The second Passover is recorded in the 4 Gospels. It was when Jesus went up to Jerusalem–ref Jn 2:13. This was approximately 6 months after He was baptized and was the first one after He was baptized. There were 4 Passovers held after the time Jesus was baptized to the time He was crucified.
    The third Passover is alluded to in the 4 Gospels. It took place approximately 18 months after He was baptized. Jesus went up to Jerusalem. There was a feast of the Jews–ref Jn 5:1–47. Jesus healed the man that had an infirmity 38 years at the pool called Bethesda.
    The fourth Passover took place approximately 30 months after He was baptized. It does not specifically appear to be mentioned in the 4 Gospels. Jesus would have kept this Passover. Note Mt 14:46; Mk 6:56; Mt 15:1 in this chronological study. Mt 15:5 gives the impression that Jesus was in the vicinity of Jerusalem which was the approximate time that Passover would have been held. It is written in Mk 7:1 (pt 2), ref Mt 15:1 (pt 2): PHARISEES, AND (SOME) OF THE SCRIBES (or teachers of the Law–NIV), WHICH CAME FROM JERUSALEM. Note: some believe after Jesus walked on the water, they went to Gennesaret, and then on to Capernaum. This may be the case. However, it may be that they went to Capernaum, which is the direction they were heading. Jesus taught in the synagogue there, and then they may have gone on to Gennesaret, and then to Jerusalem for Passover. The exact order seems to be in question.
    The fifth Passover is recorded in the 4 Gospels. It is when Jesus went up to Bethany 6 days before Passover. He entered Jerusalem 2 days later to be examined as a Lamb before the slaughter. He was ultimately crucified. Note Mt 26:2, 17–19; Mk 14:1,12,14,16; Lk 22:1,7,8,11,13,15; Jn 11:55; 12:1; 13:1; 18:28,32; 19:4.

SEVEN FEASTS OF ISRAEL–IS IT GOD’S TIMETABLE?
    It was required that all males (12 and up) go to Jerusalem 3 times a year on the feast dates. The first three feasts came during the spring, usually during or around our April. The fourth one came during the summer. The last three came during the fall, usually during or around our September.
    1–Passover: fourteenth day of the first month.
    2–Unleavened Bread: fifteenth day of the first month.
    3–Firstfruits: Sunday following Unleavened Bread.

    4–Pentecost: also called Feast of Weeks in the Old Testament. Fiftieth day after Firstfruits.

    5–Trumpets: first day of the seventh month.
    6–Atonement: tenth day of the seventh month. Repentance of Israel.
    7–Tabernacles: fifteenth day of the seventh month. These were ordained in the Old Testament and are a timetable covering seven biblical events, of which, four have been fulfilled:
    1–Jesus crucified (fulfilled)
    2–Jesus buried, (fulfilled) and
    3–Jesus resurrected (fulfilled).

    4–The Holy Spirit came in His fullness (fulfilled).
    5–The Rapture (not yet fulfilled). Next major event. Could be during or around our September on the feast of trumpets.
    6–When they shall look upon Him, Whom they have pierced (not yet fulfilled). The time of Armageddon when Jesus returns.
    7–The coming state of rest. Jesus reigns on earth for one thousand years (not yet fulfilled).

JERUSALEM’S ELEVATION
    Jerusalem’s elevation varies. Among the lower points is the Kidron valley located between the Temple mount and the Mount of Olives. Among the higher points is an area located over a mile away in a somewhat westerly direction from the Temple mount. This is why a person might see slightly different figures on Jerusalem's elevation, usually in the range of 2550 to 2900 feet above sea level. We generally use approximately 2700 feet.

BIRTH OF JESUS. WHAT DATE WAS HE BORN?
JESUS’ BIRTHDAY
    At this time it was about 6 months since Jesus had been baptized. Since Passover usually occurs during our month of March or April, and Jesus was about 30 years of age when His ministry began–ref Lk 3:23, some believe He was born in Sept or October, perhaps on a feast day. Four passovers (a 3 year period in between) would have occurred during the ministry of Jesus. The verses continue. JESUS WENT UP TO JERUSALEM–

    Jn 2:14.                    AND FOUND IN THE TEMPLE (courts or grounds). Jesus traveled from Capernaum to Jerusalem. Next, He is in the Temple grounds. These grounds covered a huge area. In the temple area Jesus found–
    THOSE (men) THAT SOLD OXEN (or cattle)
    AND SHEEP
    AND DOVES (or pigeons). Three are mentioned. The verse continues–
    AND THE CHANGERS OF MONEY SITTING (at tables) (doing business). Many people traveled long distances to Jerusalem. Some would bring their sacrificial animals with them. Others would have found it more convenient to purchase them at the Temple. The money changers enabled the people to change their money into the proper coins as needed for the temple tax or other needs. Coins containing the image of Caesar would not have been acceptable. The merchants could make large profits, and corruption could be expected. Jesus, about 3 years later, said of these people, in Mt 21:13–IT IS WRITTEN, “MY” HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED THE HOUSE OF PRAYER; BUT YE HAVE MADE IT A DEN OF THIEVES.
    It may also be that the temple treasury received rent money that the merchants paid for the space they used to sell the items or a percentage of the profits. The corrupt chief priests, scribes, and lawyers obviously saw nothing wrong with this practice. After all, it wasn’t inside the Temple itself, but in the Temple grounds. Is it not the same as the selling of books, CDs and other merchandise conveniently located inside of many churches today? Is not much of this commerce conducted on Sunday, the Lord’s Day? The church often receives the profits from the sale of these items, which some believe justifies doing it. Most clergy and church members see nothing wrong with this practice. It could be said that the church of 100 years ago would have said this was wrong. It could be said that the church age we are now in believes this practice is OK. Which church would Jesus find the most fault with, according to the Revelation and many other Scriptures? Today’s church might say that there is no connection between today's church and the temple; thus, what Jesus did and said does not apply here.
    It was not merely the location of the selling that Jesus objected to, but also the greedy practices associated with it.
    Therefore, what followed, must have shocked the people, merchants, and priests. Jesus, when he had found these things–

    Jn 2:15.                    AND WHEN HE HAD MADE A SCOURGE (or whip out)
    OF SMALL CORDS. Jesus first makes a type of a whip and then–
    DROVE THEM ALL OUT OF THE TEMPLE (grounds). It never appears Jesus used force to drive people into the temple area, but He did use force to drive the ungodly out. Jesus also drove out–
    AND (both) THE SHEEP,
    AND THE OXEN (or cattle) (as well). When He drove out the sheep and oxen, the merchants would have undoubtedly went running after them. The verse continues–
    AND POURED OUT (or scattered) THE (money) CHANGERS’ (COINS). Some in the church today use religion as a means to advance themselves, just as others did then. Jesus showed his contempt for this. The verse continues–
    AND (OVERTURNED) (THEIR) TABLES. There is no mention made of the Roman soldiers trying to intervene to stop what was happening. Even though Jesus was angry by what he saw, it was righteous anger. The way He dealt with each group of people was different. He did not go into a blind rage, as people sometimes do.
    Jesus is seldom portrayed in the Scriptures with such a display of anger. Jesus hates every evil way.
    1–Jesus made a whip of small cords. 2–Jesus drove them all out of the temple grounds. 3–And He drove out the sheep. 4–He drove out the oxen. 5–He scattered the money of the money changers. 6–He overturned their tables.

    People in this generation of the Laodicean, so–called love churches have little understanding of the wrath of God and fearing God. What is portrayed here is not the Jesus that is preached in most churches. While Jesus is love, He is also judgment and mercy which rejoices against judgment–ref Ja 2:13. He hates sin and disobedience to the Word. When Jesus comes back at the time of Armageddon, the world will see the wrath of God against sin that many churches never teach. It will last only 24 hours, as Jesus unleashes every kind of disaster that one can imagine all at the same time. Massive earthquakes, tidal waves, wind storms, lightnings, darkness, and more will encircle the entire world. There will be few people left alive on the planet–ref Isa 10:19. Indeed, if Jesus did not return at that time, there would be no flesh saved–ref Mt 24:22.
    There was a day, not so many years ago, when very few stores were open on the Lord’s day. Buying various items in church was almost unheard of, especially on the Lord’s day. However, because of competition, because of the power of money and profit, and because of a dead or lukewarm attitude of people toward sin and holiness in these latter days, times have now changed. Indeed, the unrepentant and lukewarm love to have it the way it is now. They see no wrong, just as the priests, scribes, and lawyers saw no wrong with the corrupt commerce going on inside the Temple grounds. The verses continue–

    Jn 2:16.                    AND SAID (TO) THEM THAT SOLD DOVES (or pigeon)(s). Jesus did not overturn or drive out those that sold doves, nor did He scatter the doves, but commanded that these be removed. He said–
    TAKE THESE THINGS (AWAY) (or get these things out of here!–NIV). Jesus did not hinder the birds such as sparrows that were undoubtedly flying around, but those that were being used for commerce within the temple grounds. Jesus said–
    (STOP MAKING) MY FATHER’S HOUSE. Note, Jesus is calling God in heaven “His” Father. In doing so, He is showing Himself as the Son and as the expected Messiah. This should have shocked those that heard it. He is stating that the temple is the house of His Father. This would give Him the authority to do what He did.
    About 3 years later, Jesus calls the Temple, MY HOUSE–ref Mt 21:13. He went on to say: Mt 23:38–BEHOLD, YOUR HOUSE IS LEFT UNTO YOU DESOLATE. Many of the chief priests may have considered the temple theirs. He said STOP MAKING MY FATHER’S HOUSE–
    AN HOUSE OF MERCHANDISE (or How dare you turn My Father’s house into a market?–NIV). Indeed, many churches and church grounds in this latter day generation have been turned into houses of merchandise. Their is little fear of God or teaching on judgment, hell, sin, holiness, perfection, and the Revelation. (Note Isa 56:7–MINE HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED AN HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL PEOPLE, and Ps 93:5 which speaks of HOLINESS BECOMETH THINE HOUSE, O LORD, FOR EVER.
    Mal 3:1,2–BEHOLD, I WILL SEND MY MESSENGER, AND HE SHALL PREPARE THE WAY BEFORE ME: AND THE LORD, WHOM YE SEEK, SHALL SUDDENLY COME TO HIS TEMPLE, EVEN THE MESSENGER OF THE COVENANT, WHOM YE DELIGHT IN: BEHOLD, HE SHALL COME, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS. BUT WHO MAY ABIDE THE DAY OF HIS COMING? AND WHO SHALL STAND WHEN HE APPEARETH? FOR HE IS LIKE A REFINER’S FIRE, AND LIKE FULLERS SOAP. Although Malachi applies this to the second coming of Jesus, it can also apply here to some degree.
    Jesus did not ask His disciples to do these things. Neither did He ask them to help him. He did it personally.

TEMPLE SALES
SELLING IN THE TEMPLE
CHURCHES–SELLING IN THE CHURCHES
    The rebellious and disobedient merchants, as well as the chief priests, did not learn a lesson from all this, for they did not stop. For it is written, beginning in Mt 21:12, Mk 11:15, and Lk 19:45, that he did somewhat the same thing about 3 years later. It was about 3 days before He was crucified, as the merchants were still selling in the temple area. Jesus (DROVE) OUT ALL THEM THAT SOLD AND BOUGHT (those who were doing business there, both the merchants and their customers–JNT) IN THE TEMPLE, AND OVERTHREW THE TABLES (or desks) OF THE MONEYCHANGERS, AND THE (BENCHES) OF THEM THAT SOLD DOVES (or pigeons),AND (He) WOULD NOT (ALLOW) THAT ANY MAN SHOULD CARRY ANY VESSEL (or goods, or merchandise) THROUGH THE TEMPLE (courts). AND HE TAUGHT, AND SAID (TO) THEM, IT IS WRITTEN, MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED OF ALL NATIONS THE HOUSE OF PRAYER; BUT (YOU) HAVE MADE IT A DEN OF THIEVES (or robbers). Then He pronounced the judgment, as He said, Mt 23:38–BEHOLD, YOUR HOUSE IS LEFT UNTO YOU DESOLATE. He also said regarding the Temple, Mk 13:2–SEEST THOU THESE GREAT BUILDINGS? THERE SHALL NOT BE LEFT ONE STONE UPON ANOTHER, THAT SHALL NOT BE THROWN DOWN. It is much the same today in many churches? The money made from the sale of all sorts of merchandise on Sunday (the Lord’s Day) in churches, make null and void the words of Jesus.

FEAR THE LORD
ANGER OF THE LORD
    The words “the anger of the Lord” appear in the Bible approximately 32 times. The words “fear the Lord” appear in the Bible approximately 31 times. These are seldom taught anymore in today’s lukewarm churches. The verses continue–

    Jn 2:17.                    AND HIS DISCIPLES
    REMEMBERED THAT IT WAS WRITTEN. The fact that the disciples remembered the Scripture is an indication that they had attended services and had heard them before. Also His disciples remembered what was written at that time, not some time later. God can bring to our remembrance specific Scripture with their understanding. The Scripture was–
    THE ZEAL OF (YOUR) HOUSE
    (HAS) EATEN ME UP (or zeal for your house will consume [or devour] Me–NIV). This is found in Ps 69:9. The entire verse reads: FOR THE ZEAL OF THINE HOUSE HATH EATEN ME UP. The second part of the verse was not repeated here, which reads–AND THE REPROACHES OF THEM THAT REPROACHED THEE ARE FALLEN UPON ME. The zeal He had for His Father’s house would be one reason the wrath of the religious establishment would seek to destroy Him or eat Him up. Ultimately, the things Jesus did and said would lead to His crucifixion.
    At this time the disobedient Jewish merchants must have been furious. They challenged Jesus with the following words–

    Jn 2:18.                    THEN ANSWERED THE JEWS AND SAID (TO) HIM, WHAT SIGN
    (SHOW) (YOU) (TO) US,
    SEEING THAT (YOU) (DO) THESE THINGS (or what miraculous sign) (do you show to us–NKJV)
    (to prove you have the–JNT) (authority to do all this–NIV)? In verse 16, Jesus had already claimed that God in heaven was His Father. It has been said that this request for a sign was ridiculous, because the actions of Jesus were a sign when viewed in light of Mal 3:1–3. The fulfillment of the prophecies from God’s Word are a sign for those that understand. However, it is written in Dan 12:10–THE WICKED SHALL DO WICKEDLY: AND NONE OF THE WICKED SHALL UNDERSTAND. The wicked do not correctly understand the Scriptures, even though they often think they do. They see, but see not–ref Mt 13:13.
    Some readers might ask, “Why did the Jews ask Him for a sign?”

SIGN (WHY PEOPLE WANTED A SIGN)
JESUS SUFFERED WHAT?
WORLD AGAINST JESUS
PERSECUTIONS
    The answer to this is that their evil hearts did not want to repent and submit to the ways of God. They were in rebellion to God. They did not want God to reign over them. With this event, we see the opposition to Christ beginning to increase. The more Jesus Christ would teach on sin, and judgment, and testify that the people’s works were evil, the more opposition and persecution there was against Him. Ultimately, He was despised, rejected of men, falsely accused, challenged, ridiculed, betrayed, arrested, mocked, condemned, laughed at, spit on, beaten, His beard pulled off His face (ref Isa 50:6), whipped, His appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and His form beyond human likeness (ref Isa 52:14), surrounded by the wicked, nailed to a cross, insulted, crucified, all of His bones were out of joint (ref Ps 22:14), His tongue cleaved to His jaws (ref Ps 22:15), He groaned (ref Ps 22:1), suffered unbelievable pain and died. Even after He died a spear pierced His side. The chief priests, scribes, lawyers, rulers, ruling counsel, religious denominations, Herod, Pontius Pilate, with the gentiles and the people of Israel were all against Him. And even to this very day, His name is used as a curse word by people across the world, in private and public places, in casual and hateful conversations, and even in the movies. What does the Bible say of people that use such language? It is written: Jude 1:15–THEIR UNGODLY DEEDS…THEIR HARD SPEECHES WHICH UNGODLY SINNERS HAVE SPOKEN AGAINST HIM.
    Even to this day, many rulers, courts, lawyers, people in authority, political bodies from the highest to the lowest levels, the military, police, and even many churches are against both Him and the words He spoke.
    Even to this day, most people reject the words He spoke, even though Jesus showed himself alive after His resurrection by many infallible proofs, being seen for 40 days.
    Now this same Jesus says to us, “Follow Me,” and “Observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” John, the writer of this Gospel, says: Jn 19:35–AND HE THAT SAW IT BARE RECORD, AND HIS RECORD IS TRUE: AND HE KNOWETH THAT HE SAITH TRUE, THAT YE MIGHT BELIEVE.
    Those few preachers and lay people that follow Jesus and speak the words of God, in the manner in which the Holy Spirit directs, find themselves having all sorts of great difficulties and persecutions. The world is like the strong current of a huge river going in the wrong direction. When a person tries to row against it, by telling people to repent and by teaching God’s pure Word of righteousness, holiness, sin, judgment, and eternal damnation, the people of the world may react (as Satan motivates them) in very hateful and negative ways. People hated Jesus about 2000 years ago, and they still hate Jesus today.

SIGN. Biblical Scriptures relating to Jn 2:18.
    Why did the Jews seek for a sign? It is written: 1 Cor 1:21,22–FOR AFTER THAT IN THE WISDOM OF GOD THE WORLD BY WISDOM KNEW NOT GOD, IT PLEASED GOD BY THE FOOLISHNESS OF PREACHING TO SAVE THEM THAT BELIEVE. FOR THE JEWS REQUIRE A SIGN, AND THE GREEKS SEEK AFTER WISDOM, Note the words–THE JEWS REQUIRE A SIGN. 1 Cor 1:23,24–BUT WE PREACH CHRIST CRUCIFIED, UNTO THE JEWS A STUMBLINGBLOCK, AND UNTO THE GREEKS FOOLISHNESS; BUT UNTO THEM WHICH ARE CALLED, BOTH JEWS AND GREEKS, CHRIST THE POWER OF GOD, AND THE WISDOM OF GOD.
    Several times in the New Testament, the Jews asked for a sign.
    Mt 12:38–THEN CERTAIN OF THE SCRIBES AND OF THE PHARISEES ANSWERED, SAYING, MASTER, WE WOULD SEE A SIGN FROM THEE.
    Mt 16:1–THE PHARISEES ALSO WITH THE SADDUCEES CAME, AND TEMPTING DESIRED HIM THAT HE WOULD SHEW THEM A SIGN FROM HEAVEN.
    Jn 6:30–THEY SAID THEREFORE UNTO HIM, WHAT SIGN SHEWEST THOU THEN, THAT WE MAY SEE, AND BELIEVE THEE? WHAT DOST THOU WORK?
    At another time Lk 11:16–OTHERS, TEMPTING HIM, SOUGHT OF HIM A SIGN FROM HEAVEN. Jesus said of people that seek a sign: Lk 11:29–THIS IS AN EVIL GENERATION: THEY SEEK A SIGN; AND THERE SHALL NO SIGN BE GIVEN IT, BUT THE SIGN OF JONAS THE PROPHET.

    The first mention of a sign in the New Testament was to the shepherds in the field as the angel said. Lk 2:11,12–FOR UNTO YOU IS BORN THIS DAY IN THE CITY OF DAVID A SAVIOUR, WHICH IS CHRIST THE LORD. AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN UNTO YOU; YE SHALL FIND THE BABE WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, LYING IN A MANGER.
    Not long after the birth of Jesus, it is written: Lk 2:34–AND SIMEON BLESSED THEM, AND SAID UNTO MARY HIS MOTHER, BEHOLD, THIS CHILD IS SET FOR THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL; AND FOR A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST.

    Not long before His crucifixion, Jesus was asked some questions by His disciples. Mt 24:3–AND AS HE SAT UPON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES, THE DISCIPLES CAME UNTO HIM PRIVATELY, SAYING, TELL US, WHEN SHALL THESE THINGS BE? AND WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN OF THY COMING, AND OF THE END OF THE WORLD?
    Mk 13:4–TELL US, WHEN SHALL THESE THINGS BE? AND WHAT SHALL BE THE SIGN WHEN ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE FULFILLED?
    Lk 21:7–AND THEY ASKED HIM, SAYING, MASTER, BUT WHEN SHALL THESE THINGS BE? AND WHAT SIGN WILL THERE BE WHEN THESE THINGS SHALL COME TO PASS?
    Jesus also replied several verses later in Mt 24:30–AND THEN SHALL APPEAR THE SIGN OF THE SON OF MAN IN HEAVEN: AND THEN SHALL ALL THE TRIBES OF THE EARTH MOURN, AND THEY SHALL SEE THE SON OF MAN COMING IN THE CLOUDS OF HEAVEN WITH POWER AND GREAT GLORY.
    When it comes to a sign, the Bible clearly shows that unless God opens a person’s heart to understand, no miracle or sign could convince a person–ref Lk 10:21. Proof of this is that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, yet many still could not believe–ref Jn 11:43–37.
    The guards at the tomb of Jesus knew He rose from the dead as they became like dead men but they still could not believe–ref Mt 28:4, 11–15.
    The religious leaders knew from the testimony of the guards that Jesus rose from the dead, but they still could not believe–ref Mt 28:11–15.
    Nicodemus himself told Jesus that the Pharisees (of whom he was one) knew that Jesus was a teacher come from God, for no man could do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him–ref Jn 3:2; yet he and others did not believe.
    The rich man in hell asked Abraham to send someone from the dead to his brethren to warn them so they would repent, but Abraham replied: Lk 16:31–IF THEY HEAR NOT MOSES AND THE PROPHETS, NEITHER WILL THEY BE PERSUADED, THOUGH ONE ROSE FROM THE DEAD.
    The list could go on and on. A sign does no good to the unbelieving if God does not open their heart to understand.
    The other disciples told doubting Thomas that they had seen the Lord. Thomas said EXCEPT I SHALL SEE IN HIS HANDS THE PRINT OF THE NAILS, AND PUT MY FINGER INTO THE PRINT OF THE NAILS, AND THRUST MY HAND INTO HIS SIDE, I WILL NOT BELIEVE–Jn 20:25. After about 8 days, Jesus came and stood in their midst and told Thomas: Jn 20:27–31–REACH HITHER THY HAND, AND THRUST IT INTO MY SIDE: AND BE NOT FAITHLESS, BUT BELIEVING. AND THOMAS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HIM, MY LORD AND MY GOD. JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM, THOMAS, BECAUSE THOU HAST SEEN ME, THOU HAST BELIEVED: BLESSED ARE THEY THAT HAVE NOT SEEN, AND YET HAVE BELIEVED. AND MANY OTHER SIGNS TRULY DID JESUS IN THE PRESENCE OF HIS DISCIPLES, WHICH ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK: BUT THESE ARE WRITTEN, THAT YE MIGHT BELIEVE THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD; AND THAT BELIEVING YE MIGHT HAVE LIFE THROUGH HIS NAME. If the perfect, infallible Word of God does not cause someone to believe, then even someone being raised from the dead will not persuade them.
    Jesus gave the disobedient Jewish merchants and the others an answer regarding the sign they were seeking to prove He had the authority to do what he did. It is written–

    Jn 2:19.                    JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) THEM,
    DESTROY THIS TEMPLE,
    AND IN THREE DAYS I WILL RAISE IT UP. Jesus was standing in the Temple grounds. The Jews did not listen carefully to the exact words He spoke. Neither did they understand what He was talking about. They even seemed to think He spoke words He never said. The people incorrectly assumed He was referring to the temple; however, the temple Jesus spoke of was His body. Jesus was telling them: destroy My body, and in three days, I will raise it up. He was speaking of His crucifixion and resurrection as the proof that He had the authority to do what He did, as it would prove He is God. He had power over death itself. His resurrection would prove that He was the Christ, the Messiah, that many had been waiting for. Jesus Christ is greater than the Temple–ref Mt 12:6. These prophecies and more are in the Old Testament–ref Isa 53:1–12; Dan 9:26; Ps 16:10. What He spoke did come to pass about three years later.
    The people had no understanding that this very same Jesus created the heavens and the earth. He created all things–ref Col 1:16,17.
    Did the people humble themselves and repent? No. Did they ask Him what He meant? No.
    Verse 21 gives more information as to what He meant.
    Note: These very words were used against Jesus, undoubtedly by some of these same evil people, when he was being questioned just before His crucifixion about 3 years later. It is written in Mt 26:60, 61 and Mk 14:57–AT THE LAST CAME TWO FALSE WITNESSES (forward),(and) (GAVE THIS FALSE TESTIMONY) AGAINST HIM, AND SAID, THIS FELLOW SAID, I AM ABLE TO DESTROY THE TEMPLE OF GOD, AND TO BUILD IT IN THREE DAYS. They did not understand what Jesus was talking about. They did not repeat correctly what Jesus said. Neither did they relay the circumstances to put what He said in context. He did not say this temple “OF GOD.” Neither did He say He would “BUILD IT.” What they repeated was a lie. They repeated what their evil heart thought He said, but not what He actually said. Born again Christians can also expect unregenerate people and carnal Christians to misquote them and then try to falsely accuse and persecute them, using things they never said.
    The sign Jesus gave them to prove He had the authority to do what He did was–He would be crucified, but would be resurrected. This would prove He is God. The resurrection, which would happen about 3 years later, would prove He had the power over death. As stated previously, the Jews had no understanding of what He was talking about. In addition, the fact that they asked for a sign reveals their own ignorance and lack of understanding of the Scriptures. As Jesus said in Lk 11:29–AN EVIL GENERATION: THEY SEEK A SIGN.
    t is written: Rev 21:22–AND I SAW NO TEMPLE THEREIN: FOR THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY AND THE LAMB ARE THE TEMPLE OF IT. The Temple may be said to be a form of Christ’s body. When Christ was crucified and gave up the ghost, the veil of the Temple was rent–ref Mt 27:51; Mk 15:38; Lk 23:45. The need for the temple now ceased. Indeed, the buildings were destroyed about 40 years later.
    It is approximately 6 months after He was baptized. There are yet about 3 years left in His ministry. This is the first time Jesus had given any indication that He would be killed or crucified, but would rise from the dead in three days. His body was destroyed or crucified on the cross.
    Regarding the use of signs, it is written: Lk 2:34–AND SIMEON…SAID UNTO MARY HIS MOTHER, BEHOLD, THIS CHILD IS SET FOR THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL; AND FOR A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST. An impossible sign for positive proof can be given by God, but the evil hearts of men will still refuse to believe.
    So why did Jesus answer them in the manner He did?

PARABLES
WHY DID JESUS SPEAK IN PARABLES?
    Mt 13:10,11,13–16–AND THE DISCIPLES CAME, AND SAID UNTO HIM, WHY SPEAKEST THOU UNTO THEM IN PARABLES? HE ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO THEM, BECAUSE IT IS GIVEN UNTO YOU TO KNOW THE MYSTERIES OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, BUT TO THEM IT IS NOT GIVEN. THEREFORE SPEAK I TO THEM IN PARABLES: BECAUSE THEY SEEING SEE NOT; AND HEARING THEY HEAR NOT, NEITHER DO THEY UNDERSTAND. AND IN THEM IS FULFILLED THE PROPHECY OF ESAIAS, WHICH SAITH, BY HEARING YE SHALL HEAR, AND SHALL NOT UNDERSTAND; AND SEEING YE SHALL SEE, AND SHALL NOT PERCEIVE: FOR THIS PEOPLE’S HEART IS WAXED GROSS, AND THEIR EARS ARE DULL OF HEARING, AND THEIR EYES THEY HAVE CLOSED; LEST AT ANY TIME THEY SHOULD SEE WITH THEIR EYES, AND HEAR WITH THEIR EARS, AND SHOULD UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART, AND SHOULD BE CONVERTED, AND I SHOULD HEAL THEM. BUT BLESSED ARE YOUR EYES, FOR THEY SEE: AND YOUR EARS, FOR THEY HEAR. 1 Cor 2:14–BUT THE NATURAL MAN RECEIVETH NOT THE THINGS OF THE SPIRIT OF GOD: FOR THEY ARE FOOLISHNESS UNTO HIM: NEITHER CAN HE KNOW THEM, BECAUSE THEY ARE SPIRITUALLY DISCERNED.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:20.                    THEN SAID THE JEWS
    FORTY AND SIX YEARS WAS THIS TEMPLE IN BUILDING,
    AND (WILL) (YOU) (RAISE) IT UP IN THREE DAYS? One can sense the skeptical, evil, sarcastic tone in their voices as they said these words.
    The huge temple that Herod had constructed over a 46 year period, was built partly to please the Jews and partly for his own glory. It is reported that the temple with its surrounding grounds continued to be worked on for many more years.
    The well–known Western Wall (Kotel) or “Wailing Wall” is part of the retaining wall of Herod’s temple.

    Jn 2:21.                    BUT HE (WAS SPEAKING)
    OF THE TEMPLE OF HIS BODY. Jesus said in Jn 10:18–I HAVE POWER TO LAY IT DOWN, AND I HAVE POWER TO TAKE IT AGAIN. THIS COMMANDMENT HAVE I RECEIVED OF MY FATHER. Jesus’ body was hung on the cross. However, three days later, He was raised from the dead. Jesus responded in a way that His disciples undoubtedly never expected. It is never recorded that Jesus corrected the Jews’ misunderstanding. God’s people would understand in due time; for it is written in Dan 12:10– THE WICKED SHALL DO WICKEDLY: AND NONE OF THE WICKED SHALL UNDERSTAND; BUT THE WISE SHALL UNDERSTAND. The wicked often mock, distort, and do not understand, but God’s children will understand.
    Those with wayside hearts whose eyes and ears are closed will not understand. The following verses should help a person understand this further.

TEMPLE OF GOD: Other Scriptures relating to this verse
    1 Cor 3:16–17–KNOW YE NOT THAT YE ARE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, AND THAT THE SPIRIT OF GOD DWELLETH IN YOU?
    1 Cor 3:17–IF ANY MAN DEFILE THE TEMPLE OF GOD, HIM SHALL GOD DESTROY; FOR THE TEMPLE OF GOD IS HOLY, WHICH TEMPLE YE ARE.
    1 Cor 6:19–WHAT? KNOW YE NOT THAT YOUR BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY GHOST WHICH IS IN YOU, WHICH YE HAVE OF GOD, AND YE ARE NOT YOUR OWN?
    2 Cor 6:16–AND WHAT AGREEMENT HATH THE TEMPLE OF GOD WITH IDOLS? FOR YE ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD; AS GOD HATH SAID, I WILL DWELL IN THEM, AND WALK IN THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE.

    In addition, He prophesied of the total destruction of this great temple, which had been in building FORTY AND SIX YEARS. It covered a large area of Jerusalem, perhaps one–sixth. He later prophesied that not even one stone of the buildings would remain upon another–ref Mt 24:2, Lk 13:3, Lk 21:6.

    At the time Jesus spoke these words, His own disciples did not understand. They were expecting the kingdom to be restored to Israel, not expecting Jesus would be crucified and rise from the dead–ref Acts 1:6 and Lk 3:15
    Note in the next verse–

    Jn 2:22.                    WHEN THEREFORE HE (which is Jesus)
    WAS RISEN FROM THE DEAD, (which was approximately 3 years later),
    HIS DISCIPLES REMEMBERED
    THAT HE HAD SAID THIS (TO) THEM. The disciples did not seem to understand the words Jesus spoke in verse 19. They also did not understand the Old Testament prophecies referring to His upcoming death and resurrection, until after He was resurrected. This is confirmed in Lk 24:25–27, 30–32–THEN HE SAID UNTO THEM, O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN: OUGHT NOT CHRIST TO HAVE SUFFERED THESE THINGS, AND TO ENTER INTO HIS GLORY? AND BEGINNING AT MOSES AND ALL THE PROPHETS, HE EXPOUNDED UNTO THEM IN ALL THE SCRIPTURES THE THINGS CONCERNING HIMSELF. AND IT CAME TO PASS, AS HE SAT AT MEAT WITH THEM, HE TOOK BREAD, AND BLESSED IT, AND BRAKE, AND GAVE TO THEM. AND THEIR EYES WERE OPENED, AND THEY KNEW HIM; AND HE VANISHED OUT OF THEIR SIGHT. AND THEY SAID ONE TO ANOTHER, DID NOT OUR HEART BURN WITHIN US, WHILE HE TALKED WITH US BY THE WAY, AND WHILE HE OPENED TO US THE SCRIPTURES?
    God is able to bring things to our remembrance and give us the understanding. The verse continues–
    AND THEY BELIEVED (or trusted)
    THE SCRIPTURE. God forbid, how few people there are in this lukewarm generation that truly believe and trust all the Scriptures. The verse continues–
    AND THE WORD WHICH JESUS HAD SAID. God forbid, how few people there are in this lukewarm generation that truly trust the Word which Jesus spoke. Many say they believe in Jesus, but they do not understand, believe, study, or trust the words He spoke. If a person does not believe the words Jesus spoke, they do not believe in the Jesus of the Bible. They are in unbelief. Many churches say they exalt the name of Jesus. However, only a few understand, preach, and exalt the uncompromised Word He spoke.

UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE
    Understanding the Bible (for those that are called of God) may be likened to a man arising out of a long, deep sleep. At first, he may open one eye and then the other. He may continue to lie in bed for a while and yawn. He may have been dreaming, and his mind is still on the dream. Slowly he arises, still a bit dizzy. Slowly he understands that the dream was only a dream or an illusion. Slowly he staggers to get some water to splash on his face. He may trip over some things as he does. Gradually, he awakens to the reality of being awake and in the light after having been in darkness. Some want to go back to sleep and darkness. Some want to stay awake, go forth, and bear good fruit.
    As a person that is called of God responds, he repents. He should begin to crave to hear and study the Bible as a newborn baby craves milk. As the person repents, forgives others, humbles himself, stops looking back and studies, they awake more and more out of the deep sleep of darkness. God begins to open up their understanding of His Word. As they humbly obey His Word, they awake more and more out of their sleep. Regretfully, many resist the truth and want to sleep on.
    Are you one that is still slumbering, sleeping, and in darkness, or are you one that has awakened?
    Are you one that thinks you are awake but you are still in the darkness of your dreams? Examine yourself by God’s Word to see if you are really awake in the eyes of God.
    Have you thawed out or are you still frozen like ice? Does your attitude testify that you are following God or the deceiver?
    Is your thoughts, actions, and speech centered on the Jesus of the Bible, and holiness, or on the world and earthly things?
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:23.                    NOW WHEN HE (which is Jesus)
    WAS IN JERUSALEM
    AT THE PASSOVER,
    IN THE FEAST DAY. This verse gives us both the location (Jerusalem) and the time of the year (around our April). The verse continues–
    MANY (people) BELIEVED IN HIS NAME. In other words, they believed that this was the long awaited Messiah, the Christ, the one that Moses, Daniel and other prophets had said would come. The verse continues–
    WHEN THEY SAW THE MIRACLES (or signs)
    WHICH HE DID. Little is mentioned about what miracles Jesus did at Jerusalem during this trip.
    It is written: Jn 20:30–AND MANY OTHER SIGNS TRULY DID JESUS IN THE PRESENCE OF HIS DISCIPLES, WHICH ARE NOT WRITTEN IN THIS BOOK:
    Jn 21:25–AND THERE ARE ALSO MANY OTHER THINGS WHICH JESUS DID, THE WHICH, IF THEY SHOULD BE WRITTEN EVERY ONE, I SUPPOSE THAT EVEN THE WORLD ITSELF COULD NOT CONTAIN THE BOOKS THAT SHOULD BE WRITTEN. AMEN.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:24.                    BUT JESUS DID NOT COMMIT (or entrust) HIMSELF (TO) THEM. Jesus committed himself to His Father. Jesus knows those that are truly His. The verse continues–
    BECAUSE HE KNEW (WHAT PEOPLE ARE LIKE–JNT). Christ searches the reins and hearts–ref Rev 2:23. It has been said that this may mean that He knew the wickedness, weakness, and lack of trust of these people.
    Some people seem like they believe, but when persecutions or problems arise, they fall away. Others believe for a while, but when cares of this life or other things enter in, they also fall away. Some are like a wave. Jesus did not commit Himself to them. Yet a few do continue in the faith steadfast, bearing much fruit until the end. Among the people that saw the miracles were undoubtedly some of the very merchants that Jesus had reprimanded. Note commentary on Believer, But Perish.
    The theme in verse 23 and 24 appears to be that the people believed in His name when they saw the miracles. They may have believed He was a great prophet or healer. Nevertheless, their faith may not have been a saving faith through trusting in His Word and receiving Him alone as their only hope of salvation. They may not have believed He is the only begotten Son of God who had authority to forgive their sins. Even today, if a miracle happens by the hand of God, people will believe and give glory to God, but their heart may not be repentant and converted through faith. Many profess that they know God, but their heart is far from Him. They try to act like they are a Christian, but no inner change took place deep down in their heart and attitude. Faith needs to be firmly rooted in the Scriptures, not some spur of the moment emotion. Many probably thought He would deliver them from Rome, but did not consider that He came to deliver them from the bondage of sin.

BELIEVE BUT PERISH?
BORN AGAIN
CONVERSION
TODAY’S CHURCH
    True belief equals trust. Many people believed in Christ, but for some it may have been nothing more than a head knowledge or a short lived enthusiasm after seeing the miracles which He did. What saves a person is repentance coupled with true trust and reliance centered in Jesus and Jesus alone. It results in a commitment of one’s life to Jesus. This brings about true conversion and being born again.
    People believed in Jesus in verse 23, but Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew what people are like.
    In Jn 12:42,43 it is written–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: FOR THEY LOVED THE PRAISE OF MEN MORE THAN THE PRAISE OF GOD.
    In Rev 3:16 Jesus is speaking to the Laodicean lukewarm church. He said of them I WILL SPUE THEE OUT OF MY MOUTH. They were naked. They were not clothed with the white garments of righteousness. Their eyes did not perceive things correctly. Jesus tells them to be zealous and repent–ref Rev 3:18.
    This is today’s church. They straddle the fence. They try to have one foot on the rock but the other foot in the world.
    There are many that hear God’s Word and receive it with joy and believe. Yet they have no root in themselves. They endure or believe for a time but when rejections, persecutions, false teaching, or temptations come their way, they fall away. They have stony and thorny hearts. They bring no fruit to perfection–ref Mt 13; Mk 4; Lk 8.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 2:25.                    AND (He) NEEDED NOT
    THAT ANY (one) SHOULD TESTIFY OF MAN
    FOR HE KNEW WHAT WAS IN MAN (or He didn’t need anyone to inform Him about a person, because He knew what was in the person’s heart–JNT). This is further confirmed in Lk 9:47 as it shows at another time that JESUS, perceived THE THOUGHT OF THEIR HEART. Jesus knew then and knows now what is in each person’s heart. It is written Jere 17:9–THE HEART IS DECEITFUL ABOVE ALL THINGS, AND DESPERATELY WICKED: WHO CAN KNOW IT? Many people are like a wave that goes in and out. One minute they believe and the next minute they doubt, question, and accuse. Man’s pride leads him to hell.
    It is also written that Jesus said in Jn 5:41–I RECEIVE NOT HONOUR FROM MEN.

WITNESSES THAT PROVE JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD
TESTIMONY REGARDING JESUS
(Also see Witnesses and proof that Jesus is the Son of God following Lk 2:38)

JOHN THE BAPTIST BEARS WITNESS OF JESUS
    Jn 1:29–THE NEXT DAY JOHN SEETH JESUS COMING UNTO HIM, AND SAITH, BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD.
    Jn 5:36–Jesus said: BUT I HAVE GREATER WITNESS THAN THAT OF JOHN.

JESUS BEARS WITNESS OF HIMSELF
    Jn 8:18–I AM ONE THAT BEAR WITNESS OF MYSELF.
    Jn 8:14–JESUS ANSWERED…, THOUGH I BEAR RECORD OF MYSELF, YET MY RECORD IS TRUE.

WORKS OR MIRACLES JESUS DID BEARS WITNESS
    Jn 5:36–THE WORKS WHICH THE FATHER HATH GIVEN ME TO FINISH, THE SAME WORKS THAT I DO, BEAR WITNESS OF ME, THAT THE FATHER HATH SENT ME.
    Jn 10:25–…THE WORKS THAT I DO IN MY FATHER’S NAME, THEY BEAR WITNESS OF ME.
    Jn 10:38–…IF…YE BELIEVE NOT ME, BELIEVE THE WORKS: THAT YE MAY KNOW, AND BELIEVE, THAT THE FATHER IS IN ME, AND I IN HIM.
    Jn 14:11–BELIEVE ME…OR ELSE BELIEVE ME FOR THE VERY WORKS’ SAKE.

WRITTEN WORD OF GOD BEARS WITNESS OF JESUS
    Jn 5:37–THE FATHER HIMSELF,…HATH BORNE WITNESS OF ME. In other words–The Scriptures bears witness of Jesus
    Jn 5:39–…THE SCRIPTURES;…THEY ARE THEY WHICH TESTIFY OF ME.
    Lk 24:25–…HE SAID, O FOOLS, AND SLOW OF HEART TO BELIEVE ALL THAT THE PROPHETS HAVE SPOKEN.
    Jn 5:46,47–FOR HAD YE BELIEVED MOSES, YE WOULD HAVE BELIEVED ME: FOR HE WROTE OF ME. BUT IF YE BELIEVE NOT HIS WRITINGS, HOW SHALL YE BELIEVE MY WORDS?
    Jn 18:18–THE FATHER THAT SENT ME BEARETH WITNESS OF ME. In other words the Old Testament bears witness of Jesus.

WRITER OF THE GOSPEL OF JOHN BEARS RECORD
    Jn 19:35–AND HE THAT SAW IT BARE RECORD, AND HIS RECORD IS TRUE: AND HE KNOWETH THAT HE SAITH TRUE, THAT YE MIGHT BELIEVE.
    Jn 21:24–THIS IS THE DISCIPLE WHICH TESTIFIETH OF THESE THINGS, AND WROTE THESE THINGS: AND WE KNOW THAT HIS TESTIMONY IS TRUE.

THE END OF THIS SUBJECT
    Ro 3:4–GOD FORBID: YEA, LET GOD BE TRUE, BUT EVERY MAN A LIAR. The verses continue–




    Jn 3:1.                    (Now) THERE WAS A MAN
    OF THE PHARISEES.

PHARISEES
    It is reported that the religious group of the Pharisees originated about 130 years before Christ was born. Their name reportedly meant “separated ones.” It has been estimated by several authorities that they numbered about 6000. They sat in Moses’ seat–ref Mt 23:2. They were unsaved, hypocritical religious leaders during the time of Jesus. They tried to follow the Mosaic law exactly; however, their understanding of the law was often flawed. They instigated many of their own laws and traditions, which were contrary to good sound teaching and made God’s Word of none effect–ref Mt 23:13–35; Mk 7:13. They taught for doctrine the commandments of men–ref Mt 15:9. Many of them did not think of themselves as sinners–ref Lk 18:10,11. In Judaism, the Pharisees were very influential. Nearly all people thought of them as very godly–Lk 11:44. These Orthodox men often ridiculed and tried to discredit the teachings of Jesus openly. They even went so far as to say of Jesus that He cast out devils by Beelzebub, the prince of the devils, and that He had an unclean spirit–ref Mt 12:24; Mk 3:30. See Mt 3:7, for a more in–depth commentary about the Pharisees. The verse continues–
    NAMED NICODEMUS,
    A RULER OF THE JEWS (or member of the Jewish ruling council–NIV). Nicodemus was a leading Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin–see Mt 15:43. In a worldly manner, he was an extremely important person, both spiritually and politically. Little did he or the people suspect that he was unsaved. Little did he understand how to be saved (or born again). It is the same today. Many people and clergy think they are saved, yet they are spiritually blind. They are on a collision course with hell.
    It is written in 1 Cor 1:26–NOT MANY WISE MEN AFTER THE FLESH, NOT MANY NOBLE, ARE CALLED. Few of these types of people get saved. Nicodemus was a noble man.
    See Jn 7:50 and 19:39 for more information on Nicodemus. Some of the chief Pharisees were part of the Sanhedrin or counsel.

SANHEDRIN. COUNSEL
    In the KJV, the word “Counsel” is sometimes used. In the NIV, the word “Sanhedrin” is used.
    The Sanhedrin, or supreme council was headed by a high priest and had religious, civil, and criminal authority).
    It might be considered as the equivalent of the Supreme Court or rulers of the people–ref Jn 3:1; Acts 23:5
    It is reported that it consisted of 70 members including the chief priests, Pharisees, elders and possibly some Sadducees–ref Jn 11:47; Acts 4:23; 23:6. Some scribes may have been included.
    The head of the Sanhedrin was whoever the high priest was that year–ref Jn 11:49; Acts 23:2.
    At the time of Jesus’ crucifixion they did not have the power to put someone to death, however this seems to have changed later on–ref Mk 15:1 and Acts 7:59.
    They sometimes met on a daily basis except for the Sabbath (or holy) days.
    In the case of Jesus being tried, the judges were some of the same people that gathered against Him and sought for a way to kill Him–ref Jn 11:47–53.
    It was held in the High Priest’s palace–ref Mt 26:58.
    They were a very corrupt organization as can be seen in some of the following.
    The Sanhedrin sought for false witnesses against Jesus–ref Mt 26:59.
    They delivered Him to Pilate–ref Mk 15:1.
    They spit in Jesus’ face and buffeted Him and others smote Him with the palms of their hands–ref Mt 26:67.
    They could in some cases make laws or give commands–ref Jn 11:57; Acts 4:18.
    They fight against God and His Word–ref Acts 4:18, 26.
    They also wanted to kill the apostles–ref Acts 5:33.
    They helped conspire to kill Paul–ref Acts 23:15
    They beat the apostles–ref Acts 5:40.
    They allowed the Word of God to be spoken in defense–ref Acts 7:2–53.
    They hated the Word of God–ref Acts 7:54.
    There were at least 3 members of the Sanhedrin that were spoke of by the Word of God as not being against Jesus:
    1–Nicodemus ref Jn 3:1–16; 7:50–51; 19:39,40.
    2–Joseph of Arimathaea ref Mk 15:43; Jn 19:38
    3–Gamaliel ref Acts 5:34; 22:3.
    In the NIV, the word “Sanhedrin” appears in the following verses: Mt 5:22, 26:59; Mk 14:55, 15:1; Jn 11:47; Acts 4:15, 5:21, 27, 34, 41; 6:12, 15; 22:30; 23:1, 6, 15, 20, 28; 24:20.
    The verses continue–

    Jn 3:2.                    (THIS MAN) (which is Nicodemus)–
    CAME TO JESUS BY NIGHT. Apparently, he did not want anyone to know he came to see Jesus. Many of his fellow Pharisees (the religious leaders) hated Jesus. In addition, coming to Jesus by night would give him more of an opportunity to speak to Him uninterrupted. During the day time, there were often many people surrounding Jesus. For a person of Nicodemus’ position to come to Jesus at all, he would have had to humble himself. God put it in the heart of Nicodemus to seek Jesus out to fulfill His purpose. It appears that at some future date, he may have gotten saved. The verse continues–
    AND SAID (TO) HIM,
    RABBI. Nicodemus addressed Jesus Christ as Rabbi, which means “Master” or “Teacher.” It is a term used to address, Jewish religious leaders or a leader of a Jewish congregation. Rabbi, however, relates that Nicodemus did not comprehend that this was the actual One and only begotten Son of God–Jesus Christ come in the flesh. He came to talk to Jesus as one rabbi to another rabbi. The verse continues–
    WE KNOW. Note, Nicodemus used the word “we,” as relating to not just himself but some others also. He seemed to be relating to other Pharisees. Some believe that others may have come with him; however, the verse does not give an indication that this is the case. In other words, (we) know–
    THAT (YOU)
    (ARE) A TEACHER
    COME FROM GOD (or we know it is from God that You have come as a teacher–JNT). He was saying that He, as well as some other Pharisees, knew that Jesus was a teacher and He was sent from God. He did not acknowledge Jesus as the long awaited Messiah (Immanuel) that would be born of a virgin–ref Isa 7:14. He did not understand that Jesus Christ is God which came to this earth in human form. He did not understand that Jesus Christ created all things–ref Col 1:14. The reason he knew that Jesus was a teacher come from God was reflected in his next words. He said–
    FOR NO MAN CAN DO THESE MIRACLES (or miraculous signs)
    THAT (YOU) (DO). Indeed, no man up to this time had ever done such miracles as Jesus did. It appears that even some of the skeptical, evil Pharisees that were against Jesus admitted that He did miracles. There was no doubt that the miracles of Jesus were not counterfeit. The people themselves that saw the miracles Jesus did, at a later date, said in Jn 7:31–WHEN CHRIST COMETH, WILL HE DO MORE MIRACLES THAN THESE WHICH THIS MAN HATH DONE? Exactly what miracles he was referring to is not mentioned. As Nicodemus was saying, FOR NO MAN CAN DO THESE MIRACLES THAT (YOU) (DO)–
    EXCEPT GOD BE WITH HIM. At least some of the Pharisees knew Jesus was from God, that God had to be with Him and that He did miracles; yet, it was the majority of the Pharisees that delivered Him to Pilate to be hung on a cross about 3 years later. At this point in time, it was only about 6 months after Jesus had been baptized. His ministry was to last a total of about 3½ years. At only about 6 months after He had been baptized, He had already caught the attention of the Pharisees as well as others.

PROOF JESUS IS THE CHRIST
    It has been said that His miracles were His credentials. Every prophecy in the Old Testament that was written of the first coming of the Messiah was fulfilled by Jesus. John the Baptist testified and identified Jesus as He. Prophecies that Jesus spoke also came to pass exactly as He said. And finally, His resurrection proved that Jesus is the Messiah, the only begotten Son of God. He is God manifested in the flesh and He shall return.

NICODEMUS
    About 3 years later, this same Nicodemus took a stand for Jesus and got persecuted by other Pharisees–ref Jn 7:50–53. After Jesus was crucified, this same Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes. They took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury–ref Jn 19:38–40. The verses continue–

    Jn 3:3.                    JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID (TO) HIM,
    (YES, INDEED),
    I SAY (TO) (YOU) (the truth). Jesus is putting an emphasis on what He is about to say. The verse continues–
    (UNLESS) A MAN. This message is to everyone–to all humanity. Unless a man–
    BE BORN AGAIN (from above). The first birth is our natural birth. The second birth (being born again) is a spiritual birth which is not possible through man’s efforts, but is only possible through God–ref Mt 19:26. All the good works, religious efforts, and ceremonies of man, preachers, priests, rabbi, church, or denominations cannot save a person. Unless a man be born again from above–
    HE CANNOT SEE
    THE KINGDOM OF GOD (or no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again–NIV).
    The term “Kingdom of God” often refers to the Millennial kingdom Jesus shall set up on the earth when He returns during the time of Armageddon. However, some of the passages using the words “Kingdom of God” refers to heaven such as 1 Cor 15:50.
    Israel had regressed in its spiritual thinking to the point that many believed that simply being born a Jew (being a son of Abraham) was sufficient to be saved–ref Mt 3:9; Lk 3:8. Some believed that simply knowing the law would save a person–ref Jn 7:49.
    BORN AGAIN AND NICODEMUS. Nicodemus initially did not ask Jesus a question. He simply made a statement that he and others believed Jesus was a teacher come from God. Following Nicodemus’ statement, Jesus made a return statement that catapults this verse into one of the most important in the entire Bible. He goes right to the heart of the situation and lets Nicodemus know that unless a spiritual transformation takes place in a person by the Spirit of God, which is evidenced by a change in a person’s thinking, fruits, and attitude, they will not see the Kingdom of God. This incredible transformation is called being born again. All are born in sin, since the fall of Adam, and all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Jesus is telling Nicodemus that a person must become a child of God, before they can see the Kingdom of God. A person must be transformed (and) converted–ref Mt 18:3, from being in darkness spiritually to being in the light. Many think they are saved and in the light; but, in reality, they are still spiritually dead and in the darkness. They think they understand and see correctly, but they do not. A person must be converted from ruling over himself to becoming childlike. He needs to humble himself, trust in God, submit to God and His Word, and allow God to rule over Him. Few people ever do this. Few fear God and humbly stand steadfast unto the end: loving, trusting, and submitting to God.
    A person is spiritually dead. Without the intervention of God, man will stay in that state until he dies. Then he will go to hell to await the final judgment, which leads to the eternal lake of fire (also called the second death). A person must be born again or born anew. These words spoke Jesus to a very religious leader, a Bible teacher, a well–educated man, a very moral person, a person that appeared to do the works of God full time; but he was nevertheless dead in his sins, as he had not been born again from above by the Spirit of God.
    A person needs to be converted from being spiritually dead, spiritually prideful, stubborn, stiffnecked, self–centered, and hard–hearted to being humble, pliable, Christ–centered, soft–hearted, sorrowful over their sins with repentance, and a childlike attitude to God’s word and correction. Correction and repentance (or change) is the way of life for a person that is being born again and is born again. If a person is truthful with himself and the Word of God, he would have to admit that only a few people fit this description.
    The statement Jesus made about a person being born again led Nicodemus to ask three questions.
    1. HOW CAN A MAN BE BORN WHEN HE IS OLD (or grown)?–v4
    2. CAN HE ENTER (or go back) THE SECOND TIME INTO HIS MOTHER’S WOMB, AND BE BORN?–v4
    3. HOW CAN THESE THINGS BE–v9

BORN AGAIN

STATISTICS ON BEING BORN AGAIN
BORN AGAIN STATISTICS
    To put it bluntly, no matter how religious a person is, no matter how good a person is, no matter how many good works a person does, no matter how much he goes to church, works in his church, or even witnesses to others, no matter how much money he gives, no matter how much a person professes to be a Christian, no matter how many times a person turns over a new leaf or tries to patch himself up, or makes new year resolutions–if they are not truly born again from above by the Spirit of God with fruits that bear witness–they will eternally perish.
    Man is born with an inherent sinful, self–centered, corrupt nature that is in rebellion to God. One can appear to be a moral person, but still not be born again. A spiritual transformation (or inner conversion, or regeneration–ref Titus 3:5) needs to take place in a one’s heart, thoughts, attitude and life. A person must undergo an inner and outer change in their thinking, attitude, and deeds–from the old natural man and the world’s ways, man’s own ways and self–centeredness–to the spiritual man and the ways of the fruits of the Spirit. As it is written–AND BE NOT CONFORMED TO THIS WORLD: BUT BE YE TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MIND–Ro 12:2. Before a person is born again, their attitude reflects the ways of this world. After repenting and being born again from above through trusting in God, their attitude begins to reflect the fruit of the Spirit, as they hear, understand, believe, and obey the pure Word of God–ref Ro 10:17; Heb 5:9; Acts 5:32. The person’s thinking is transformed. They begin to overcome all things through Christ, which strengthens them–ref Phili 4:13; 1 Jn 2:14; 4:4; 5:4–5; 2 Pe 2:19; Rev 3:21; 21:7. They begin to be led by God’s Word and the Spirit of God–ref Ro 8:14. They begin to live a life that in harmony with God and His Word. The old worldly ways and thinking are to be put off. The new way–the ways of God, as outlined in the Scriptures, are to be put on–ref Eph 4:22–24; Col 3:9,10.
    The true church are the few born–again, Spirit–led Christians that stand fast in their trust in Jesus Christ as their only hope–ref Eph 2:8–10. Recent surveys that we and others have done indicate about 80% of the people, in both our area and in the United States, claim to be a Christian. However, only about ˝ of these (or less than 40%) claim to be born again. Nevertheless, when a person looks for evidence (or fruit) that a person is born again, the number is very, very low.
    The fact that very few people understand about being born again or are truly born again and shall enter the kingdom of God is substantiated by many passages in the New Testament from Matthew to the Revelation.

UNDERSTANDING HID APART FROM GOD
MAN CANNOT UNDERSTAND IF GOD DOES NOT OPEN HIS HEART
BORN AGAIN
    Corrupt and sinful man is incapable of understanding the concept of being born again, and just how wicked he is, even though he may think he does. He often sees darkness as light.
    Corrupt and sinful man is incapable of understanding in his heart where he is with God and that he is going to perish to the lake of fire for eternity because the darkness has blinded his eyes–ref Mt 5:23; 1 Jn 2:11, Jn 12:35.
    Satan is able to take away the word out of a person’s wayside heart as fast as it goes in so they cannot understand, believe and be saved–ref Lk 8:12
    Only God in his mercy can open a person’s heart to understand being born again and sin as God sees it–ref Lk 1:78–79; Jn 1:5–6, 3:19–20, 8:12, 12:35.
    The idea that most religions in the world are man–made and not of God and,
        that a person is incapable of saving himself,
            that religion, being religious, and good works saves no one,
                that man is incapable of understanding being born again apart from God in his mercy opening their understanding,
                    and that he must humble himself,
                        deny himself,
                            fear God,
                                love God,
                                    see sin as God sees it,
                                        hate evil
                                            and pick up his cross daily and follow the Jesus of the Bible
                                                and obey God’s Word,
                                                    is ridiculous and insulting to man.
    Jere 17:9–THE HEART IS DECEITFUL ABOVE ALL THINGS, AND DESPERATELY WICKED: WHO CAN KNOW IT?
    Many sincere people, people that seemed like good people, people that loved this present world, people that loved their children and were wonderful parents, people that were good husbands and wives, that were good employees and employers, that were upstanding citizens in the community, that did many good works, that helped their neighbors, that went to church faithfully, that gave their tithes, and served their churches, that were religious, that were priests and preachers, that didn't take drugs, get drunk, smoke, or cuss, and seemingly helped mankind are now in hell, because they were not truly born again. They were never converted, never had their minds renewed, never conformed to the image of Christ, and never became a humble child of the living God. Corrupt and sinful man has a real problem understanding this.
    The world stands in rebellion to God and His Word.
    The born again person should be living as if Jesus would return tomorrow. The World does not. One thing we pray: THY KINGDOM COME–ref Mt 6:10; Lk 11:2.

BORN AGAIN BIBLE STUDY SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
    Born–again: Jn 3:1–3,6; Mt 18:3; Acts 3:19; Jn 1:12,13; 1 Pe 1:23; 1 Jn 2:29; 1 Jn 3:8–10; 1 Jn 5:18; 1 Pe 2:2,3; Mt 9:16,17+; Lk 5:39; Jn 5:24; 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 6:15; Gal 3:27; Ro 6:6–10; Eph 4:22,24; Col 3:9,10; Eph 2:2,3; Ro 12:2; 1 Cor 2:12; 1 Jn 4:13; Ro 8:9; Ezek 36:26; 2 Pe 1:4; 1 Jn 3:1; 2 Cor 5:15.

CONVERTED BIBLE STUDY SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
    Converted: 1 Jn 5:9; Mk 4:12; Lk 22:32; Col 3:23; Ro 8:9, 14; Acts 2:37,38; Heb 5:8,8; Gal 4:21–31. Also note Mt 18:3 for Scripture references on a converted attitude.

1–NICODEMUS WAS CONFUSED ABOUT BEING BORN–AGAIN
    It is written, Jn 3:1–3–THERE WAS A MAN OF THE PHARISEES, NAMED NICODEMUS, A RULER OF THE JEWS: THE SAME CAME TO JESUS BY NIGHT, AND SAID UNTO HIM, RABBI, WE KNOW THAT THOU ART A TEACHER COME FROM GOD: FOR NO MAN CAN DO THESE MIRACLES THAT THOU DOEST, EXCEPT GOD BE WITH HIM. JESUS ANSWERED AND SAID UNTO HIM, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO THEE, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN–AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD. Jesus has just given us a condition for seeing heaven. This absolute condition is–you must be born–again. Few people today understand the new birth, including preachers, or ministers, priests, and rabbis. In a survey taken, many people incorrectly thought that being born–again was simply an experience or a feeling they had. Others believe being born–again is simply to believe in (that is have a head knowledge of) God or Jesus Christ, or belonging to a Christian church, or saying a sinner’s prayer, or getting baptized.
    Jn 3:4–NICODEMUS SAITH UNTO HIM (unto Jesus), HOW? Note Nicodemus’ first word, “How?“ He didn’t understand the concept of the new birth, even though he was a spiritual leader in Israel. Indeed, he was a ruler of the Jews and a master of Israel. NICODEMUS SAITH UNTO HIM, HOW CAN A MAN BE BORN WHEN HE IS OLD? CAN HE ENTER THE SECOND TIME INTO HIS MOTHER’S WOMB, AND BE BORN? These words show us that such a concept as the new birth taking place in a person was something he did not understand, as is the case with many preachers today. Recently, a well–known person in the world's largest (so–called) Christian denomination was asked about being born–again on television. He stuttered and seemed confused. He was unable to give a satisfactory answer.

2–THE NEW BIRTH MUST TAKE PLACE IN US, OR WE CANNOT ENTER THE KINGDOM OF GOD
    JESUS ANSWERED, VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO THEE, EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN OF WATER AND OF THE SPIRIT, HE CANNOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD–Jn 3:5.
    Note in 1 Jn 5:6,8–THIS IS HE THAT CAME BY WATER AND BLOOD, EVEN JESUS CHRIST…AND THERE ARE THREE THAT BEAR WITNESS IN EARTH, THE SPIRIT, AND THE WATER, AND THE BLOOD: AND THESE THREE AGREE IN ONE. Again, Jesus makes it clear. A new birth must take place: indeed, born of water and of the Spirit. Jn 3:6–THAT WHICH IS BORN OF THE FLESH IS FLESH; AND THAT WHICH IS BORN OF THE SPIRIT IS SPIRIT. Clearly, Jesus is showing us that there are two births. The first birth is of the flesh. This is what we call our birthday. Yet a second birth must take place, or we cannot see the kingdom of heaven.



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