Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” John 18:23
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 18:19-24, where Jesus - now arrested and in custody - is questioned by Annas, the father in law of Caiaphas. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus does not hide anything about the Truth and seeks to expose those who mean him harm for no other reason than He threatens their power. He is asked about His disciples and teaching - v19 - and Jesus rightly asks his accuser(s) why they ask about these things when He has been very open about His teaching and about what He is doing with His disciples. This is a valid question as they could have just as easily done their own homework and "investigation" to more fully understand Jesus' teaching and His work with the disciples. Jesus asks the right questions to expose people's heart condition. This scene echoes scripture where Paul writes in Romans 7:7-13 how "if it had not been for the law, I would not have known sin." Jesus is then struck in v22 for being "confrontational" yet Jesus is really challenging each of us to understand (and confess and repent from) our own sin.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Those who arrested and question Jesus do not seek truth - instead they seek their own selfish gain (and self-preservation).
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid glory of self - love God then love others. Claim the promise that Jesus is the way, truth, and the life. No Word from God will ever fail - Luke 1:37 (NIV). Follow the example of Jesus to speak the Word of God boldly. Put on the whole armor of God.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. You are the way, the truth and the life and no Word from You will ever fail - God's Word is faithful and inerrant. Thank You for my salvation and Your Word so that I can know, love and be transformed by You into more of Your image. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me and help me turn from and overcome such sin. Help me turn towards You. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
