Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.

 John 21:20-25

Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. John 21:25

I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 21:20-25, where we see Jesus rebuke Peter for his apparent envy of John.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method. 

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus is not concerned about petty conflicts among believers - He knows that unity is very important among believers and we should not allow ourselves to be envious (it is a sin) nor should we allow minor disagreements to divide us.  Jesus rebukes Peter for his concern and exhorts him to focus on the command given him - to follow Jesus.  Jesus' plan for Peter (see vv18-19) was to be a martyr and we know that His plan for John was for him to be exiled to Patmos where he received God's vision and inspiration for the book of Revelation.  V25 could be referred to as the greatest understatement in history - Jesus, nor His works cannot be contained or measured.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: John does not have any higher place than Peter as Jesus and scripture make it clear that whoever seeks to be first shall become last - emphasizing humility (Mark 9:35). 
• 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 envy.  Follow the example of Jesus who in humility took on flesh so that many could be saved.  Don't be concerned with the task given someone else, follow Jesus and His will for Your life. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me.  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.

“The temple I am going to build will be great, because our God is greater than all other gods. But who is able to build a temple for him, since the heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain him? Who then am I to build a temple for him, except as a place to burn sacrifices before him?"

1 Kings 5-7 and 9:25; 2 Chronicles 2-8

“The temple I am going to build will be great, because our God is greater than all other gods. But  who is able to build a temple for him, since the heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain him? Who then am I to build a temple for him, except as a place to burn sacrifices before him?" 2 Chronicles 2:5-6

Day 131 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with Solomon's efforts to build the temple in Jerusalem.

Having attended a church plant that met first in a movie theater then in a middle school building, I am familiar with the criticism and resistance that often accompanies attendance at a church that does not have a traditional or permanent church building.  Solomon is accurate in his statement that God is not contained in a church building as of course He is omnipresent. He is in our hearts and among His children when they meet together.  He exists in the Word and through the Holy Spirit.

See also