This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die. John 18:32
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 18:25-32, where we see the final details of Peter's denial of Jesus, and the initial details of Jesus brought before Pilate. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: Other than v28, Jesus is not explicitly acting in the text - yet we must remember from John 1:1 that "[i]n the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." All scripture points to Him and He fulfills all prophecy. He is also always at work. See also Colossians 1:15-17 where Jesus is Creator of all things and He holds all things together - either allowing or orchestrating the details. V32 is key as Jesus' death by crucifixion at the hands of local Roman rule fulfills prophecy - see Matthew 20:19, Luke 18:32-33 as well as this Bible dictionary entry which discusses how this manner of death was not likely one used by the Jews. God is faithful and no word from Him will ever fail (Luke 1:37 NIV).
- What do we learn from the text about people?: In contrast to Jesus, Peter in this instance - and all of humanity - cannot be counted on 100% of the time (John 13:37-38) based on the claim that he would lay down his life for Jesus which of course Peter did not do upon Jesus' arrest and trial - his comfort was more important as he was "warming" himself. The text also describes the Jewish leaders seeking to put Jesus to death - an innocent man who was threatening their status and power - they were not concerned about their heart condition - full of envy, rage, anger, etc. They were only concerned about their external behaviors - not to be defiled (v28) and to avoid "put[ting] anyone to death" (v31).
- 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 focus on external behaviors. Claim the promise that Jesus is faithful 100% of the time. Follow Jesus' example to surrender to God's will for your life. Focus on heart condition by allowing Jesus to change you from the inside out.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. 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.
