Jesus

Revelation – Pergamum

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The Letter to the Church in Pergamum in a Nutshell

Jesus the one with a double-edged sword says He knows where they live. He knows the people are holding firm to His name and that one of them has already paid the ultimate price for following Him. But He also knows that they have let in and tolerate people who are trying to lead the astray. They need to repent and turn back to Christ. He says if they will then He will give them hidden manna and white stone with a new name.

There is really just so much here. If you have read the Old Testament and specifically the account of the Exodus and the wandering in the wilderness then you can see the connections here. I am going to have to work hard here to keep this brief.

This is another some good some bad letter (like Ephesus). Here Jesus tells them that He knows where they live, and that is important to note because Pergamum was the center of emperor worship. They worshiped the emperor like a god, and one of their own had already paid the price for not conforming.

OK, we’ve got that and as much as I would like to talk about that I really want to talk about Balaam. You might remember his story because he was the one who’s donkey spoke, but there is a lot more to the story. Balaam was hired by a fellow by the name of Balak to curse the Israelites but when he tried he found he could not. He makes a fantastic statement in Numbers 23:19 which was actually the first verse I ever learned.

God is not a man who lies, or a son of man who changes His mind. Does He speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill?

Basically, what it means is if God has determined something then no one and nothing can come against it. So the problem was Balaam could not curse what God what God had blessed; however, the people could go astray from what God had called them to. Balaam figured that if the people broke God’s commandments then He could not bless them while they were being disobedient. But what do we do with that? As Christians, we are not bound to the Mosaic law but under grace. Well, that is true but we can still be disobedient to God. God cannot bless you if you are being willfully disobedient to Him, and that is what is going on here. As an example think about 1 Peter 3:7 where Peter tells the men to love and respect their wives so that their prayers are not hindered.  

The people in Pergamum had let in people that were trying to get them away from following God’s truth. You might have heard the expression “exchanging the truth of God for a lie” and that is part of what this means. They were letting people in the church teach them things that lead them away from God. We can do this in our own lives. We can let TV, music, friends, work, or really just about anything come into our lives and take over our values, morals, and ideals. We have to get rid of those things. It is not easy, but it is necessary. I used to go through a purge every couple of years where I would find everything I thought was causing me to stumble and dump it. Then, of course, I would add stuff back in and then purge again. This cycle kept on until I started to realize what I needed to stop and not allow in my life that did not belong there. It can be different for everyone so you need to watch your own steps.

For example, I was a huge grunge fan growing up. I had the look, the attitude, and the music memorized. The whole scene summed up what I thought about life. I was also a bad kid. I mean I was nasty, mean, and usually on something. So now while I still love me some grunge music I can’t listen to it now. It brings me somewhere I can’t go. So I don’t let that thing in my life that has the ability to make me stumble. Everyone has their own thing. We all have areas like that. Areas that we need to guard against and protect. We can’t let someone or something into our lives that takes us to a place that Jesus said we should not go and expect Him to bless us there.

 

Just a thought,

Mike

 

Revelation – Smyrna

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The Letter to the Church in Smyrna in a Nutshell:

The church in Smyrna was under pressure. Jesus says I know your affliction and poverty yet you are rich. He tells them He is aware people are persecuting them, and that they are going to have more sufferings but to stay faithful. He goes on to say that the victor will never be harmed by the second death.

Jesus had nothing bad to say about the church in Smyrna. They were doing good, and by that, I  mean as my wife would say they were not “doing” but “being.” There was no fault that needed to be brought up. They were tight in theology and love.

There is actually quite a bit that could be discussed in Jesus’s address to the church in Smyrna. We could come at this from a few different angles and if this was a sermon then I probably would but because we are just trying to bring this home to where we live I’ll try my best to stay there.

The church or more specifically the people in the church were being persecuted and attacked for their faith in Jesus. Now this still happens in parts of the world, but I don’t want to talk about persecution except to say remember to pray for and find ways to serve those who are persecuted. There are people all over the world who are run out of their homes, attacked, threatened, and killed because they trust the name of Jesus.

Here is the thing I think we should take away from this letter…Jesus Knows. He calls Himself the first and the last and says that He knows their affliction or trouble. That is something we should take comfort in. Knowing that Jesus who sits at the right hand of the Father and lives to make intercession for us knows what we are going through should help you go through it. Now this is where faith comes in. If He knows why then why doesn’t He change the situation? I can’t answer that because I have no idea. I mean maybe it is something you need to go through to help someone, help yourself, learn something, maybe you never get to know. I am sure that sounds like a copout, but I would be overstretching if I tried to answer why you are going through what you are going through. Part of me wants to be able to tell someone why they are going through what they are going through but honestly there can be so many reasons (including you did it to yourself) but in the end, we live in a fallen world.

What we have to do is go beyond the question of why and just know that He is aware. He is not caught off guard when His people suffer. We could play the comparison game where you tell me what you are going through and then I try and top you and we go back and forth, but that does not actually accomplish anything. Instead, what I can do is tell you that Jesus loves you. He sees your pain, your hurt, and He cares deeply. Think about when Lazarus died. Some say that Jesus wept for Lazarus, but I have always held a different view. I have always thought that Jesus wept not for Lazarus but because of effects of sin. Lazarus was dead because he lived in a fallen world where death happens. Just remember Jesus knows, He not only knows, but He cares. Take a minute and just pray, tell Him why you are hurting. Be honest about it. It is not so He will know, but so you can get it out. You let it out and let Him in. He has made you the victor!

Just a thought,

Mike

Intro and Ephesus

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Over the next few posts, I want to look at what is commonly referred to as the Seven Letters to the Churches in the book of Revelation. I want to preface with a few things before we begin.

First, we are not going to look at the prophetic or even the apocalyptic nature of the book of Revelation. We could spend time going into issues of pre, mid, or post tribulation. We could look at the different thoughts on dispensationalism or the dating of the book, but that is not going to be our focus. There is a time and place for that, but it is not here. Instead, we are going to bring these books to where you and I live most of our lives. I asked myself a question as my daughter was asking me questions about Revelation and that was what do I or can I do with these letters? I noticed over and over Jesus saying, “Anyone who has an ear should hear what the Spirit says to the churches” so I thought it best to listen.

Secondly, each church was to read what was said to the other churches. So you could read and say, “Jesus likes what we are doing but thinks we should improve here or there. Oh, look what the brothers and sisters in XXXX are being told. Let’s do or not do that.” We, in the same way, should use the letters as a mirror and be honest about our situation.

Finally, we are not going to look at the book as a whole. I know to some that is near blasphemy but just chill and take a walk with me. I would like us to look at these letters and see what can we do with them and how can we apply what Jesus was saying. I believe that in each address made to the individual church there is something we can learn and apply to our lives. The post will be somewhat terse but for our purposes, I think it will suffice. I believe we can all learn a lot from what the Spirit had/has to say. So this will serve as the introduction and as the saying goes “On with the show!”

The Letter to the Church in Ephesus in a Nutshell:

Jesus tells John to write to the church in Ephesus and tell them He likes that they are strong in their theology. They are doing well to test those who say they are apostles (think important in the church). Jesus likes that they do not tolerate evil and that they hate the practices of the Nicolaitans. However, they have lost their love. For all they have going for them Jesus says He will take away their lampstand because they have lost their love.

We can “do” all the right things but we must do them from a place of love. We cannot grow cold in our devotion to the truth even though it is easy to do. Things like taking care of the sick, poor, impoverished, those in prison, and so on are of extreme importance. We cannot stop caring for those in need. Right now there is a big debate going on about Syrian refugees, and while I am not going to tell you what I think (partly because I am still working through my thoughts) we should take the time to examine what Jesus said about these types of things. It is also the Christmas season so we have people asking for money, toys, and food on nearly every corner. What did Jesus say about that?

The bigger questions do the hurting that exist in the world hurt you, and does the suffering of your brothers and sisters in Christ make you wonder what you should do? I know that not everyone can do everything. Sometimes you are the one in need I get that. But can you do something? Do you have it in you to do something for those who are hurting? Can you give time, money, or prayer?

Galatians 6:9 – So we must not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.

John 13:35 – By this all people will know that you are My disciples if you have love for one another.

There are a lot of other Scriptures about this topic, but these two are a good start. Do good, and love. Jesus said we are to love God and love our neighbor. Yes be theologically sound (we’ll talk about that in another letter) but don’t forget it is God’s goodness that draws men to repentance. don’t become so hard with the truth that you kill those who need help.To put it another way, don’t Bible thump. It is a fine line that requires much prayer, much studying, and much love.

Remember Jesus loved that the church in Ephesus was tight in their theology, but He said He would shut the church down because they forgot to love.

 

Just a thought,

Mike

 

AN EXEGESIS OF JOHN 7:37-44

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THIS IS THE CHRIST:AN EXEGESIS OF JOHN 7:37-44

AN EXEGESIS OF JOHN 7:37-44

 

Main Idea

Jesus is the Christ, and the Prophet promised in the Old Testament. He is the source of new life, and because of this belief in Him is the requirement to live out this new life. All who believe in Him are given the Spirit to flow in them like living waters.

Outline 

  1. Jesus has living waters for those who thirst and believe in Him. (John 7:37-38)
  2. The living waters are revealed to be the Holy Spirit. (John 7:39)
  3. Jesus meets the requirements for Messiah and Prophet. (John 7:40-44)

 

Introduction

In chapter 6:1-20 John records two sign miracles; the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on water. He then moves to record the first I Am statement of Jesus in 6:35 where Jesus says that He is the bread of life and that all who eat of Him will never be hungry and all who drink of Him will never be thirsty. These statements culminate with many disciples leaving Jesus and Peter’s statement that Jesus has the words of eternal life. While there is an undisclosed time span between John 6:70 and 7:1 the teachings of Jesus had been building for some time as He continued to show Himself as Messiah, Prophet, and God incarnate. His teachings were in line with the Old Testament, although, not compatible with the teachings and doctrines of the Pharisees. Jesus had not made an appearance in Jerusalem since the rulers had sought to kill Him for healing on the Sabbath and making Himself equal with God (see John 5:18). Before Jesus makes His proclamation at the end of the feast He answers accusations against His authority (7:16-19) and addresses the question of His previous healing on the Sabbath (7:21-24). From there He is able to move to His proclamation that He is the source of living waters (7:37-38).

 CONTEXT

Historical Context

             Due to the ambiguous way the author chose to identify himself simply as the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 21:7, 20) there is not have a positive identification for the author. As expected this has led to debate as to not only the author, but the location, time of writing, and original audience. While tradition assigns authorship to John the son of Zebedee other candidates have been suggested ranging from Apostle Thomas, Lazarus, an unnamed disciple, and even second century Christians as the author(s) of the Fourth Gospel. Although theories range, tradition dating back to the mid 100’s teach, and it is generally accepted John the Apostle wrote at least, or was the authority of the bulk of the book.[1] As mentioned there are those who have argued that the Gospel of John is a second century work written to battle Gnostic teaching, but as John Drane points out the discovery of the Gnostic Gospels in 1945 shows us there “was a vast difference between the world of John’s Gospel, and the world of classical Gnosticism.”[2]

Regarding the location of the writing, again this is not a concrete matter, but it is believed that John wrote his Gospel in Asia minor around the area of Ephesus with most scholars giving the date of the writing in the mid 90’s.[3] It should not be assumed that this community was the target audience but the first audience. John’s stated purpose for writing is that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31).[4] With this in mind it is easy to see that the book was meant to travel beyond its original location.

There is division amongst scholars as to if an editor or editors went back through the book to add in details for second century Christians who might not be familiar with the topography or customs of first century Palestine.[5] While it is possible that some revisions took place if it is to be accepted that the author was indeed an eyewitness (21:24) then not all details can, or should be attributed to revisions. John’s audience was that of Greeks, and Jews who were not of the location where events took place, and as such he was highly selective, and detailed in what he chose to record making the Fourth Gospel “theological historiography.”[6]

Literary Context

From the first verse to the last John seeks to present Jesus as Messiah, and God incarnate. As such Jesus is continually shown not only as coming from, and returning to the Father, but in fact, being one with Him (10:3; 17:21). This is accomplished through the selectivity of the sign miracles four of which are unique to John, and the seven great “I Am” statements of Jesus.[7] Each  “I Am” statement of Jesus adds a layer of exclusivity to the fact that Jesus was not the messiah the people expected, but God in human form. Finally, the dialog that is contained in the book is different than that of the Synoptic Gospels in that there are no parables and few short sayings, but longer discourses in which Jesus expresses His awareness that He is divine.[8] Jesus is often found using words with double or deeper meanings as well. A notable example would be John 3:3 where Jesus tells Nicodemus that you must be born again where He uses the adverb ánōthen which means both “again”, and “from above”. Nicodemus assumes Jesus is referring “to again”, but He is of course, speaking of “from above.”

Moving on to John 7, John opens by saying that Jesus was in Galilee because the Jews of Judea sought to kill Him. He goes on to record a conversation between Jesus, and His brothers. Jesus’s brothers argue that if He was indeed the Messiah then He would do His works at the Feast of Tabernacles so they could be seen by others.[9] The response of Jesus about His “time” is somewhat vague and has been used by some as meaning time for His death. The idea of proper times is a recurring theme in John, and Jesus here could be using the word in two ways. First that it is not the proper moment to leave for the feast and second that it was not time to make Himself known in that way which would lead to some want to take Him. From here we see that Jesus then waits to attend the feast until after His brothers have left so He may go in secret (7:10).

The Feast of Tabernacles is the third of the great annual feast, and would have given Jesus access to a large crowd. The timing of the teaching seems to harken back to Jesus’s words in v 6 as the middle of the feast were half holy days which allowed for people to interact in a more relaxed manner and purchase items needed for the feast.[10] His teaching first is to show that God is the one who gave Jesus the authority to teach, and not one of the rabbinical schools (7:15). John then records how Jesus points out that the some are plotting to kill Him for healing a man on the Sabbath. His teachings begin to cause some in the crowd to question whether or not He is the Christ, and if the rulers have accepted His teaching as well.

 CONTENT

 John 7:37-39

During the feast of Tabernacles, the Jews, would present or give a water offering that was poured out near the altar.[11] The crowds would stand watching as the procession moved throughout the streets. Water brought from the Pool of Siloam would be poured out while the priest recited the Great Hallel as the crowds watched and followed along.[12] Jesus made His bold proclamation on the last and great day of the Feast. John records this by saying that Jesus stood and cried out. The verb used for cried is krázō and is used for a raven’s cry, crying out in agony, or to speak with a loud voice as in this case.[13] The same verb used for when the crowd calls for Jesus’s crucifixion before Pilate in Matt. 27:23 is used here showing that Jesus was loud and intended all to hear His words.

Jesus’s statement that anyone who thirsts should come to Him is at least two-fold. One, being that the Feast of Tabernacles is a remembrance of the Wilderness experience this would contrast with Moses who struck the rock at Kadesh (Exod. 17:6). While water was provided in the wilderness this was temporary refreshment, and only for the body. Jesus offers permanent refreshment that cannot be taken away, nor is His provision merely for the body.  At the same time, this seems to echo Isa. 55 as well as other places where God declares that everyone who thirsts can come to Him and freely receive. The gift of water or life is free, eternal, and God given. This also marks the third mention of thirsting and life-giving waters in John’s Gospel. First, with the Samaritan woman at the well in chapter 4, second when Jesus declares that He is the bread of life in chapter 6, and now here in chapter 7.

Jesus continues in verse 38 to say that the Scriptures themselves speak of Him. He does not appear to be alluding to one particular section of the Scriptures instead that the whole of Scripture testifies for Him. Specific verses such as Isa. 12:3, and 43:20 which reference water in connection with salvation are helpful to see a connection between this statement and water. However, what Jesus is saying here is that the Scriptures point to Him as the Messiah, and source of eternal life. From the protoevangelium in Gen. 3:15, to the Messianic prophecies in the Torah, prophets, and wisdom literature the plan of salvation has been recorded and leading up to Jesus.

Jesus places belief in Him as a requirement upon those who wish to receive the living waters. John uses the Greek verb pisteúō (believe) more than the other Gospels with 99 occurrences compared to Matthew’s 10, Mark’s 10, and Luke’s 9. Pisteúō does not simply mean to be persuaded of, but to place confidence in, or as Vine’s says “reliance, not mere credence.”[14] In Acts 5:14 the verb is used to describe those who were being added to the Lord.

As seen in verse 39 the “living water” that Jesus refers to is the Spirit Himself. This is a dynamic shift away from the classical thinking of the Holy Spirit. The phrase “Holy Spirit” is only found three times in the Old Testament; once in Ps. 53:11, and twice in Isa. 63:10, and 11. Typically the Spirit is referred to as the Spirit of God or the Spirit of the LORD. Between these titles, and the actual function of the Spirit in the Old Testament the prevailing thought was that the Spirit was an agent of God and that He was the immediate source of all life.[15] The function of the Spirit to empower people to do God’s work has not changed and is found throughout Scripture, however, a more fully developed understanding is not found until the New Testament. The idea of the Holy Spirit living or indwelling a believer is a prominent New Testament teaching.

The idea of the Spirit being a “river of living water” draws a parallel between the life-giving waters of Ezek. ch 47. The waters flowing from under the temple not only bring life but also turn the foul waters fresh (Ezek. 47:1,8;9).[16] What is being stated is that no longer will the Holy Spirit be an external force that comes upon the people of God, but the very one who gives life will flow out from within those who believe in Jesus. Christ here is then showing that the Holy Spirit will have a place in the believer. This can also serve to show the interconnectedness of the Father, Son, and Spirit as the Spirit comes from the Father because of the Son.[17]

As previously mentioned John explains that the rivers of living water is the Holy Spirit (v39) which would not be received or given until after Jesus had been glorified.[18] Speaking on the Spirit, Jesus says in 16:7 of John’s Gospel that He must return to the Father so that the Spirit may come. Only by the perfect sacrifice and resurrection does the connection to the Father that was lost by Adam become reestablished. The glory that is received is not just the sacrificial death, but the resurrection of Jesus as well.[19] First the Son was to be glorified, and then the Spirit was to be given. The glorification of Jesus makes the giving of the Spirit possible, however, only to those who believe in Him (v38). In Acts, chapter 2 Luke records the receiving and first filling of the Holy Spirit by the disciples at Pentecost.

John 7:40-44

John records that there was a division in the crowd as to whether Jesus was the Prophet (prophētēs) promised in Deut. 18:18 or if He was the Messiah.[20] This is an understandable confusion given the misunderstandings that surrounded the function of the Messiah. The Prophet was understood to be one like Moses who would speak what God commands in matters of spiritual affairs, conversely, the Messiah would be one who ruled the nation of Israel politically.[21] The issue lies in the incorrect assumption that the Messiah was to come and set the people free from foreign rule. Jesus did come to set the people free, however, this was from their slavery to sin (John 8:31-36), and not from their service to Rome. Some Rabbis believed in doctrines such as the premundane existence of the Messiah, His elevation above Moses and angels, and the suffering Servant. Nevertheless, the preoccupying thought since around the time of the exilic period was one of national re-birthing which caused the rabbinic teachers to focus on an Earthly kingdom instead of the Heavenly kingdom.[22] God had given ample Scripture to show the Messiah was coming, however, due to their circumstances they chose to focus almost solely on national deliverance.[23]

As mentioned above, the Scriptures contain a great deal of information concerning the coming Messiah. For example, Mic. 5:2 speaks of the fact that the Messiah will come from Bethlehem which the crowd rightly remembered. Bethlehem holds significance in the line of the Messiah as this was the place where David was from, and where he was anointed by Samuel. The book of Ruth has most major parts in Bethlehem as well.[24] The Messiah was to come from the line of David, and from David’s hometown (2 Sam. 7).

Both Matthew and Luke recount the nativity story in chapter 2 of their Gospels showing Jesus born in Bethlehem. They also both give a genealogy list showing that Jesus is David’s descendant. Matthew gives the lineage of Joseph showing Jesus as heir through Solomon. Luke gives us Jesus’s genealogy through Mary which traces back through Nathan who is another son of David.[25] All of these things again reinforce that Jesus is indeed the Christ.

Because of the crowd’s confusion on whether or not Jesus was Prophet or Messiah, and the shortage of information the crowd had regarding His place of birth a division arose. Indeed, there were some who believed Him to be Messiah as noted in verse 41. The text does not make clear whether the ones who believed in Him had knowledge of His birthplace, or if they assumed that because of His works and words that He must be the Messiah.

Finally, verse 44 shows that some wanted Jesus taken or arrested, but this was not done. Some of the temple guards of verse 45 are more than likely the ones who are referred in verse 44. The lack of Him being taken could be seen as a look back at the implied meaning of time in 6th and 30th verses of this chapter. This section ends in John 8:20 where John reinforces that His time had not yet come. There was still more for Jesus to accomplish before He was to be glorified. His earthly ministry did not end until He deemed it time as seen in John 19:11 and 30.

 Theological Interpretation & Application

The passage discussed above in the Gospel of John touches on two sections of systematic theology. Firstly, Christology as Jesus is not only the Messiah but the Prophet as well. As such, He not only has the rightful rule as the ultimate king but the connection and authority to speak the words the Father gives to Him. This is seen in verse 38 where He says that the Scriptures testify or speak of Him. The divinity of Jesus is also at the center of the living water statement. By proclaiming that all who believe in Him may receive the living waters Jesus is making a claim that can only be made by the divine.[26] Whereas Jesus places belief in Himself as the requirement for release of the Holy Spirit to flow in a believer, the connection to divinity is made because the Spirit of the Lord or Holy Spirit can only be sent by God and at His request.

This brings in the second area of theology that is discussed by this passage namely Pneumatology.[27] As mentioned previously Jesus here teaches that the Holy Spirit will no longer operate outside of those who believe in empowering for specific service, but internally not only equipping for work but bringing about changes to the heart and mind (see the connection to Ezek 47) which is a drastic shift from the Old Testament. The statement that the Spirit will be inside the believer changes the way believers communicate with and have relationship with God. This could also be seen as a pointing to fulfillment (or at least partial fulfillment) of Jer. 31:31-34 where God says I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts. The Spirit dwelling inside the believer gives them the words and the ability to love God and love their neighbor the way Jesus intends.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bailey, J. L. and Vander Broek. L. D. Literary Forms in The New Testament A Handbook. Louisville: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1992.

Bauckham, Richard. Historiographical Characteristics of the Gospel of John. Journal Publication. St. Mary’s College, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews Scotland, 2007.

Drane, John. Introducing the New Testament Oxford. Minneapolis: Lion Publishing Pub, 2000.

Easton, M. G. Bible Dictionary. New York: Harper & Brothers, 1893.

Edersheim, Alfred. The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Vol 2. New York: Longmans, Green, and Co. 1896.

 

Freed, Edwin R. The New Testament: A Critical Introduction Third Edition. Belmont: Wadsworth/Thomas Learning, 2001.

 

Harrison, R. K. The New Ungers Bible Dictionary. Illinois: Moody Press, 1988.

Hobbs, Hershel. The Illustrated Life of Jesus. Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 2014.

Irenaeus. Against Heresies 3.1.1

Keener, Craig. The Gospel of John: A commentary. Peabody: Hendrickson Pub, 2010

MacDonald, William. Believers Bible Commentary. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995.

Turner, M. and MacFarlane, G. New Bible Dictionary 3rd Ed. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1996.

Vine, W. E. Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Unabridged Ed. Peabody: Hendrickson Publ, 1989.

 

Walvoord, J. F. and Zuck. R. B. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures Ed. John 7:39 Wheaton: Victor Books, 1985.

 

[1] Irenaeus writing in 180 said that John was the disciple who reclined on His breast. Against Heresies 3.1.1

[2] John Drane, Introducing the New Testament Oxford: (Minneapolis: Lion Publishing plc. 2000), 215

[3]Craig S. Keener, The Gospel of John: A commentary (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ 2010), 142, 149

 [4] All biblical quotes taken from NKJV unless otherwise noted.

[5] Edwin R. Freed referencing John 9:22 says that Jews who followed Jesus during His ministry would not have been put out of the synagogue combing both the original event and a present situation. [The New Testament: A Critical Introduction Third Edition (Belmont: Wadsworth/Thomas Learning 2001)] 340, 341

[6] Richard Bauckham, Historiographical Characteristics of the Gospel of John Journal Publication (St. Mary’s College, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews Scotland 2007) 25

7 Sign miracles occur in John 2:1-10, 4:46-54, 5:1-9, 6:5-14, 15-21, 9:1-7, 11:1-44, 21:1-14. Note the eighth miracle is contested as a sign miracle because it occurs post-resurrection. The I Am statements occur in John 6:35; 8:12; 10:9; 10:11, 14; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1,5

[8] J. L. Bailey and L. D. Vander Broek, Literary Forms in The New Testament A Handbook. (Louisville: Westminster/John Knox Press 1992) 172

[9] It is important to note that John points out in verse 5 that Jesus’s brothers did not believe Jesus to be the Messiah.

[10] R. K. Harrison, The New Ungers Bible Dictionary (Illinois: Moody Press 1988) 420

[11] Craig Keener says that the water pouring may have been an innovation of the Pharisees around the time of the Maccabees, The Gospel of John: A commentary (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ 2010) 722

[12] Easton suggests that the crowds would either recite with the priest or simply answer back with hallelujah. In either case, the point is that the crowds participated and were engaged in the event. Easton’s Bible Dictionary, (New York: Harper & Brothers 1893) Hallel

[13] Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Unabridged Ed, (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ) s.v. κράζω 261

[14] The high usage of pisteúō in John’s Gospel is due to the stated purpose for his writing in 23:30. Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Unabridged Ed (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ), s.v. πιστεύω 118

[15] Ungers sites Ps 104:30; Isa 32:15; Job 33:4; and Gen 2:7, and others in stating that Spirit was not only the immediate cause of physical, but intellectual life. The New Ungers Bible Dictionary (Illinois: Moody Press 1988) 583-84

[16] Craig Keener sees the connection as possibly referring to new Jerusalem where Jesus is the new temple and the waters flow from Him. The Gospel of John: A commentary (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ 2010) 726 -727

[17] This serves as pre-statement to John 14:16 where Jesus prays or asks the Father to send the Comforter or Holy Spirit. It shows the Father, Son, and Spirit operate as one.

[18] The verb glorified (doxazō) is based on the root word doxa which carries a multiple meanings and can mean “an opinion,” “splendor,” “most glorious condition or exalted state.” It is this last usage that is meant by doxazō. In this verse, it is used to refer to the high honor, and glory due to Jesus that will be made manifest after His death, resurrection, and assentation. Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Unabridged Ed, (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ) s.v. δοξάζω 492

[19] The editor of the section on John Edwin Blum says regarding the glorification of Jesus “is His death, burial, resurrection, and ascension.” [The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures Digital Ed J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck, Ed. John 7:39 (Wheaton: Victor Books 1985)]

[20] While prophet can refer to a spokesman of God in this context it refers to the promised prophet who most believed was separate from the Messiah and would come before Him. This would explain why the Pharisees sent men to ask John the Baptist in John 1:21 if he was the prophet. Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Unabridged Ed (Peabody: Hendrickson Publ), s.v προφήτης

[21] R. K. Harrison, The New Ungers Bible Dictionary (Illinois: Moody Press 1988) 840

[22] Ibid 840

[23] Alfred Edersheim compiled a list of 456 Old Testament passages about the Messiah or Messianic times. The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah Vol 2 (New York: Longmans, Green, and Co 1896) 710

[24] Ruth is important to note here because of her place in the lineage of David and Jesus.

[25] The lineage in Luke does not specifically say that it is through Mary; however, this is generally accepted that this is the case. William MacDonald, Believers Bible Commentary (Nashville: Thomas Nelson 1995) 1379

[26] M. Turner & G. MacFarlane also discuss that this passage aids in an understanding of the Trinity, New Bible Dictionary 3rd Ed (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. 1996) 1209-10

[27] M. Turner & G. MacFarlane New Bible Dictionary 3rd Ed (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press. 1996) 1209 – 10

Is Christianity too Narrow?

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

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Christians and or Christianity has sometimes been called, “narrow-minded” or that it is “not open to other ideas” and these charges are true. In all fairness, the charges (of those sorts) are true I have to give them that. It is not open to a lot of ideas, changes, or even modifications. While there are some things to keep in mind about changes (we’ll touch on that in a moment) we should first address why Christianity is so “narrow.”

To begin with it is narrow because that’s what Jesus said it is. In Matthew 7:13 Jesus said, “Enter through the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the road is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who go through it.” That one is pretty self-explanatory but just in case…. Jesus is saying there is an easy way and a hard way in life. The hard way is to accept Him, His teachings, and most importantly, trust in His atoning death and subsequent resurrection. The easy way is to do nothing. It is hard to trust and follow Jesus sometimes. There are times when you want to go your own way and do you own thing but to trust in the Messiah is hard at times. It requires you to fall back and remember what you once knew or what you cannot see.

Another example of why it is hard is because there is no room for additions to the Gospel. Paul said in Galatians 1:8 “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel other than what we have preached to you, a curse be on him!” Again this one is pretty harsh and straight shooting. The Galatians were dealing with some legalist coming in and trying to tell them that they first needed to become Jews then they could be saved. That is like saying you cannot go to church until you clean up your act which we all know is malarky. Paul was so mad about this he wrote a whole letter (or book) to fight against this idea. There is nothing you can do to add to your salvation and nothing you can do to improve it either. It is what it is and it is finished! Jesus did all the work you just trust in Him (see above).

Christianity is hard because there can be only one way to God and that is the way He tells you to go. Jesus is not a way but the way (pay attention to the articles “a” and ”the”).

So what the other idea of changing with the times? There are some things that need to be looked at here. Remember that the Bible and the books that make it up were written thousands of years ago so the times have changed. Right? Well yes and no. Times have changed and situations have changed, but the issues remain. Sin is still bad, love and obedience to God are still good. When you read the Bible look for the principle in the original situation and then apply that to your situation. If you cannot understand the original situation then find resources. There are thousands of them. Email me if you need to I am happy to help you find out what was going on and put things in context (mike@freedomintruth.me). The point remains, Jesus is the way to the Father because He came from the Father to speak the Father’s words. That does not change.

Remember the Bible is 66 separate books that make up a larger book.

One last word. Taking one book, story, or verse and making it the focus is like taking a section from Lord of the Rings and saying the series is about a guy named Sauron who rules middle earth. Or taking Harry Potter and making it about a mean teacher who didn’t like Harry. No, you read the whole book and put it in context. Context of when it was written, who it was originally written to, and how these people wrote. You cannot judge history by any other standard than the standard that was used at the time. That includes events and the recording of events. We should not read into the Bible our thoughts and ideas but read the Bible and get thoughts and ideas. Did you know canon (as in Biblical Canon) means reed, measuring stick, or criterion by which something is judged? As Christians we are to let the Bible judge us.

Don’t exclude what or who Jesus Included!

Ok, one more last word. Because Christianity is a narrow way does not mean you get to be a um well how about we go with meany. Jesus is the one who made it narrow (I am the way the truth and the light), but is also the one who invited everyone including a thief dying on a cross, a prostitute, a tax collector, a host of other sinners, and me to come to Him. If I could sum up the message of the Gospel in a sentence or two. You cannot earn or make your way to God. He came in the flesh died on a cross, rose again three days later, and makes you clean so you can come. You just have to accept that God loves you that much and that is a hard thing to do.

Just a thought,

Mike

Not on Probation

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

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Matthew or Levi is one of my favorite disciples. To me, there is something so powerful in the call of Matthew. I get that all the callings are powerful but I think different ones can resonate with different people in different ways. Matthew’s calling is recorded in-between two episodes of Jesus. The first is Jesus forgiving and healing the paralytic man, and then Jesus dining with sinners and saying that He has come for the sick and not the righteous. I think these three episodes together show that when Jesus calls you into service He does not call and place you on probation, but you get full rights. I used to think of myself as accepted but being watched closely, however, that is not what Jesus does. He spoke about healing and forgiving and showed what it means when you are healed and forgiven. Matthew was given full rights as a disciple, so am I, and so are you!

We can think of ourselves as probationary Christians but that is just not how Jesus views us. When we accept Christ we are sealed with the Holy Spirit and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God. The old is gone and the new has come. That does not mean that past actions can no longer catch up to us or that we start acting better right away. Somethings take time. The point is we are now granted full rights as children of God. We are in that very moment of accepting Christ new and accepted. The bigger question is whether we walk in that acceptance. I love looking at Matthews life, partly, because he knew what he was.

Tax collectors were no one’s hero. They were not good Jews, they worked for the enemy, and they were cheats. No little boy dreamt about being a tax collector because no one liked them. There really was not much to like. Jesus, on the other hand, did not care. He knew He was there to call and save the sick and the lost so He did. Matthew knew who he was and Jesus knew who Matthew was. There was no question about it but Jesus still called Him. He still said follow me. Matthew followed. The people around him still called him a sinner and a tax collector. They still remember everything he did and stood for before Christ but he did not let that stop him from following Christ.

Your past might be great or it might be horrid. Either way, it is the past. Come to terms with it. Accept it. Find a way to make sense of it. Then give it to God and follow Christ. Surrender your life to Him and let Him lead while you follow. You won’t be put on probation, and you won’t be rejected.

Just a thought,

Mike

The Sticky Situation

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

Today we have a guest writer, and she happens to be my daughter.

The wind howled through the window. The girl sat huddling her knees waiting for the storm to be over. “Knock Knock” “Come in dad” Emma said. “ How’d you know it was me” “Just a wild guess” “You seem scared sweetie is everything alright” Emma knew she’d have to tell her dad at some point “I’M SORRY!!!!!!” “For what” “Well, Last Tuesday I was at school in fashion design class when I over heard Ella and Maddy talking about Mrs. Koala asking them to design a KIosk for the Fashion Studio award winner grand finale.” “Um…. Who are Ella and Maddy?” “Ella and Maddy are the schools biggest fashion lovers.” Oh…. ok continue.” “ The next day as I walking home from school I saw a flyer stapled to are pink blossom tree in the front yard.

It was for the Fashion Studio Award Winner Grand Finale I was just like Oh great. Then I had an Idea I decided I would steal their KIosk and pretend it was mine” “ Well did you?” “Sadly the jealousy got to me and well yes I did! And I’m really sorry I know I shouldn’t have and I promise I won’t do it ever again” “Did you return it” “Yes, I returned because I felt guilty about it” “It’s ok is there anything else you need to get off your chest?” “ Dad, do you think God will ever forgive me?? I’m scared he won’t” “ Emma, does God love you very much” “Yes” “Then he will forgive you. But it’s your choice to accept it do you?” “I do and I’m sorry dad” It ok honey” “I love you” “And I love you Emma”

The End
This story is all about forgivenessand the love betwen God a father and daughter!!

Come Unto Me

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

The lone figure stands hovering overhead some twenty-five or thirty feet. He is easily recognizable as you know who He should be. Of the nine panes only four appear to have meaning. The first and largest is Jesus while the second contains three words that rests in a separate pane under Him and read “Come Unto Me.” On either side of Him sits a panel with figures, but it is not easy to determine the scene. The three panes that sit below these appear to be simple squares that serve only to elongate the large window while two others on top fill in the shape. The window itself is impressive in size filling just over half of the area above the three large double doors that lead into the sanctuary.

Inside the window takes on new life. Christ stands barefoot on a rock gently raising His arms. He has the typical European features you come to expect in a painting or stained glass window. His light brown hair is parted neatly in the middle falling just below His shoulders. His beard is well-groomed, matching in color, and style to His hair. A white tunic rests underneath a vibrant red robe. Gold colored trim breaks up enough of the robe as to not allow it to dominate the eyes. He stands upon a rock with small flowers behind on His right, and a plant of sorts behind Him to the left. Blue skies with white clouds hover behind Him in the distance. Sand and a hill further back in the image stop the sky scene from overtaking the background.

Below Him sits the three words visible from the outside. Inside they are clearer although backwards as they are designed to be read from out there and not in here. The lettering is simple, and the font bold. They are not meant to draw any more attention than required to read them. A white background serves as a highlighter pointing to the importance of the words. The border that showcases the words goes from brown on the outermost part to a multicolored mash-up, and then finally mostly blue. The purpose is to draw your eyes to the center of the box. Come Unto Me they read.

To His right three figures are seen. A man with a purple tunic and blue robe lowers his head in worship; he bows slightly with a bent knee in reverence for the king. A female figure next to him rests on both knees cupping her hands under her chin. She looks upon the Christ with love and wonder. The white dress she wears would have her blend into the part of rock she kneels on if it were not for her brown hair, and a brown head covering that rest on her shoulders. Another woman stands just behind her with a hand at the side of her own face looking down. The bright orange head covering that wraps her head and shoulders make her stand out. It would seem that this is Lazarus, Mary, and Martha.

To the left of Christ, four more figures are seen three of which appear to be men. The first man stands in a yellow outfit holding a staff in one hand while raising the other. His posture seems to be one of calling on Christ to say more. Perhaps he desires more than a simple command to come. Behind him dressed all in purple is a man standing in submission. His hands are folded over together, his are eyes closed, and his head is bowed in an act of worship. He is young and accepting of the Teachers words. The thought of John the disciple comes to mind when he is seen because of this.

In the middle stands another man. With a position higher than the others, and eyes fixed on Christ he stands apart from everyone else in the window. His large white beard with matching white robe, and forward leaning posture show him to be older, and possibly wiser than the others. By the way he holds his staff and his body he is no doubt an old shepherd who knows when to pay close attention. Could this be Moses?

In the background another figure is seen – the only woman on this panel. She wears a light green almost white outfit with a red robe similar to that of Jesus minus the gold inlay. Holding a hand on her heart, and the other slightly raised towards Jesus. If this is to be Mary, the mother of Christ then this would make sense because she treasured these moments pondering them in her heart. Does she adorn the red robe to show a connection with her Son?

The three panes below these are all the same minus some slight color variations that seem to be random. White stained boxes fill the majority of space. In the middle a blue box with red diamond shape gives the eye something to focus on. The green border around this continues to feed the idea of design not function. The top of the window also shows two separate triangular windows on either side that serve to only complete the style of the larger picture. It all sits nicely in a traditional arch.

Traditional arches, dark wood accents, and an appearance of lath and plaster gives the  impression that the building as well as the large window and the ones that line the walls of the sanctuary are at least a hundred years old. The truth, however, is that the building and windows are just over eleven years old. The original Baptist church that sat here burned down in late 2002, and what sits on the site now is all new. While it is new in material, the idea seems to be a remembrance of a simpler time. The bright colored windows, classic details, and simple styling seem to call two purposes to mind.

The first is to call back to what once was. To look back to a time when the old church is where the lost went for refuge, and the saved went to rejoice. Whatever your search, the large window and simple words let you know the journey had come to an end. If you were looking for hope the three words would tell you it could be found here. If you were looking to rejoice, the words reminded that this was the place to celebrate.

Crowds would gather on a Sunday morning after the service to stand under Christ with His open arms. They would mingle with each other talking about nothing and everything. Exchanging pleasantries in a relaxed manner. Overall the mood would be one of enjoyment and peace. No doubt some could not help but wonder as they stood under Christ. Wonder about how God could become a man. Wonder about why this man would give His life for them. Wonder if they had indeed come to Him, or if they just went to the church because that was what you did.

Others, who dared not enter these hallowed grounds on a Sunday would wait until no one else was near. They would wait until the Pastor was alone so they could seek counsel, knowing that the words that adorned the window were a call to them. They were a call to the drunkard who knew he had gone too far yet again. Words that called to the wayward seeker who needed grace. Simple words that seem to need almost no context to be understood as they speak to the soul, and not the mind. Even though they stood alone, they seem to flow from Jesus Himself.

Which points out the second purpose of the window, and that is of its placement. Not the placement of the window that is obvious enough. The window sits in the front of the new, yet old church facing the street. Facing all those who enter its doors. The question of placement is for the viewer, and their placement in the scene it shows. Where do they fit into the picture? With seven figures to choose from everyone can find their place, or more likely a few places where they fit.

While it may be that the people pictured are to represent Mary, Martha, Lazarus, John, Mary the mother of Christ, or any other biblical character they represent something more too. They represent us. Each of us is up on that window being called to Christ, and each of has a place there.

Maybe we are Martha who has spent time with Him and seen His marvelous works. Heard His teachings, and yet have been too busy to sit and worship. Could we be her sister Mary who sits in awe of the Teacher? Clinging to every word, just happy to be present? Perhaps we are Lazarus and have been brought back from the dead. We were once dead, and now we live, so we have nothing else to do, but bow before the one who gave us life. Could it be we are a combination of Mary and Martha where we once sat in awe, and now find ourselves so busy with His work we forget to just be with Him? With three people on this single pane there are a few options to choose from.

To go to the other pane, there are even more options and combinations. You could find yourself as the figure all in white who has been waiting for others to see the Christ. Years have been spent waiting for others to see Him, and know Him the same way you do. You have done all you can failing at times, but all the while wanting others to see Him as grace and truth. The man in yellow-what is he saying? Does he call on Christ to tell him more? Is he at a place where he is not ready to come to Christ, but at the same time knows he should not leave? Does he stand wanting to come, but he feels it is just too simple? Then, there is the man dressed in purple. His hands are woven gently together, and his eyes are closed because what he seeks cannot be seen. He has nothing to say, and nowhere else to go. He is in a place of surrender and enjoys receiving the words of his Master.

When we combine the people on the left and those on the right we are given even more options and combinations to choose from, and that is the point. Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself, Jesus calls and says “Come Unto Me.” The people represent more than characters from the Bible-they are you and me. In some way you can find yourself in the window, but first you must look. Jesus stands on the rock calling out to all who might look to Him. His call is for all who would hear with no requirement or prerequisite. You must simply come.

Trust the Promise

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

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Of the many promises made in the Bible, the best in my opinion has to be Jesus in John 14:18 where He says “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to.” To settle that Jesus promised we will not be alone should change the way we view things. This promise is really also an echo of Deut 31:6 where it says “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

We are not alone, we are not orphans, and we have not been abandoned. Jesus left the earth but at the same time He never really left. He sent the Comforter to be in us, to guide us, and to show us. We as Christians have that this is not a question. The question is will we use it?

Just a thought,

Mike

 

 

Further Than We Expect

/ Mike Farley / Leave a comment

Below is an essay I wrote for class, and I thought I would share.

I would be lying if I were to say the building was “unassuming”, but everyone knows the purpose of this building, and most people know, or at least have an idea of what goes on inside. We have all seen movies or read books that tell us in great detail what happens inside those walls. The layout might differ, but the assumptions of its inner workings are the same. There is no hope here, no glimpses of light to be seen. This is a place of strength, and it has no room for weakness. Anyone who goes in must be prepared for rejection, proving, and have skin so hard that bullets bounce off you like a pellet gun attacking an armored car.

The fence was about 15 feet high, but it might as well have been a mile. I had never seen or felt metal this way. It was cold in a way that temperature could never be. The fence seemed to go on forever, bending perfectly around every corner-showing the outside, but mocking the idea of access to it. I have seen fences before but this was different. The fence served not only as a separation to the outside, but as intimidation to those on the inside. It seemed to work like a diaphragm with the space between links being big enough to let the wind flow in, and hope flow out. I needed to focus on something else, anything else, because this was too much to take in.

My gaze finally broke from the eternal fence. I looked up, and if giving the fence too much attention was my first mistake then looking up was my second. From the distance you could see the razor wire, but it is something else entirely to stand that close to it. The mile-high fence suddenly shrank in front of my face and I could see the sun reflecting off each tip of the wire that seemed to taunt those inside. Each one sharper than the next as they fought for prominence like a pride of young lions vying for command to see which one would devour the slowest gazelle in this wilderness.

Finally, I moved towards the main door. Not that I had a choice, once in you cannot just turn around. I had to be here. The choice was not mine, after all this is where I belonged. The entrance was overshadowed by the large glass bay window that looked out to the courtyard, and parking lot. The first room had decorations if you could call them that. Certifications, pictures of honored guards, and an American flag hung on the walls, but it was nearly as frigid in here as the fence that surrounded the complex. I gave them my name, nearly every personal possession save some cough drops, and my Bible, and was told to have a seat and wait for the guard. I sat on that hard gray bench for hours with the clock never moving. What was I doing here, how did this happen? I am not ready for this. Could I ever be ready? It didn’t really matter. I was here, and that was that. I sat counting floor tiles, ceiling tiles, and the time in-between the flickering of fluorescent bulbs. Why do places like this always have those bulbs? Why can’t they just work right? Maybe that is how they are supposed to work. Maybe the purpose of the bulbs is to flicker like a horror film, so maybe that’s why horror films use them? A new voice interrupted my thoughts “Ready”. This was it: time to move.

He seemed to be annoyed either at me or at life itself. I couldn’t tell, and I was not about to ask. The fact that he had at least 80lbs on me, a wand, and a look that made me feel like I was 5 years old being scolded by father made it clear I was not to ask questions, but follow orders. I walked looking forward as best as I could. The hallway was just as uninviting as the control room if not worse. Here there were no pictures just offices and doors with fake wooden name plaques. Not that I was trying hard but one sign stood out it simply said “Warden.” The door was closed, and I was thankful for that. My annoyed escort continued to lead me through wandering halls, and then into another courtyard. It was “open” if that is a word that can be used in a place like this. No flowers, brown grass, and the first taste of something worse than the razor wire I had seen before. The cement was painted brown, maybe in attempt to make it not so institutional, but if that was the goal they failed miserably. The walls seemed to hold in the tears of those I imagine cried into it. Tears of loss, remembrance, and regret were the mortar that held these walls together.

Eventually we entered a small hallway that led to the first block. “Open 1” my disillusioned guard said with clarity and authority, and as if the gate was controlled by his voice it let out a loud buzz, and allowed us to enter. The sound that comes off an iron gate slamming back into its home is not a clash, or bang, or even a thud. These are all sounds you hear, but this is a sound that is felt. A sound that sends a signal straight through your nervous system, and in an instant you are aware of everything. In less time than it takes to blink I notice two guards on my right behind what I could only assume was bullet proof glass, and straight ahead of me another gate leading to yet another block. To the left a wide hallway with a door on the right leading outside, just beyond that a small area not more than six by six between two more gates. The cement walls all painted the gray version of the brown color (if it could be called that) outside.  The grumpy guard turned to talk to the guards behind the glass, and tells me to wait over on the right side of the wall. Why the right side? Was this just an arbitrary order? Before I could finish my thought the gate nearest the glass opened and they entered.

Inmates started to walk in, and line up on the opposite side of the wall. They lined up knowing exactly where to stand, after all this was not their first time. I was aware that this would not be their last line up, at least for a while. The clothing varied slightly long sleeve, or short sleeve, black shoes, or white shoes. Some as young as me or younger others in their late 60s, some white, some black, some tall, some short, some had visible tattoos some did not. Even with slight modifications in appearances they all looked the same except a small handful. A slightly plump older man with white horseshoe hair and an iron on name tag that read David smiled at me. Not that “Oh my, I am in this place and someone is smiling at me” kind of smile. No this was a smile that you would see from a nice old man at the mall. It was just a genuine “Hi, nice to see you” smile. For the most part he was the only one who actually looked at me, and it was reassuring only I could not figure out why.

“OK let’s go” my annoyed escort said, and the first gate of the small resting area opened. We stepped inside, and like magic the gate closed after us leaving the men behind. The loud electric buzz sounded again letting us through the second gate. We took only a few steps and he said “just up here.” We made our way up the stairs, turned a corner, and opened the door to a room. “They’ll be in shortly.”

My mouth was so dry, and my hands so wet with sweat that I thought for a moment that my hands had been stealing the moisture from my mouth. I only had 3 cough drops, and I weighed the option of using one now. Before I could finish my thought Joy, who had been there with me all along, asked if I wanted some water. I took some water from the table, and she said we needed to get the room set up. She pointed me to a stack of Bibles, and stack of hymn books. “We don’t have enough for everyone so just space them out” she said as she hurried around setting up her things. For an older lady she was quick. She had long solid gray hair, not more than 110 pounds, and a zeal not seen in someone half her age. As she zipped around the room praying, and singing it was apparent this is where Joy belonged.

Before I could even finish laying out the Bibles the men started to arrive. First one then another, three more and finally a steady stream of grown men filled the room. They went straight to their seats like it was sixth grade homeroom all over again. No one wanted to be caught standing when the bell rang. Yet I noticed a strange sight. Most of them had a smile on their face. The biggest smile came from my hallway friend David.

Joy stood in front of this group of men, and said “Guys, guys, this is preacher Mike and he’s got a message for you today!” Joy was always so happy, and full of life. She was the epitome of her name. I however nearly threw up at that moment. This was by far the most fear I had ever felt in my life. It was not the place I was in, and it was not the people that surrounded me, it was not even the content of my message. It was James 3:1 running through my head, and the question of had I prepared enough sprinting through my mind. I had one chance to share the love of God with these men. I had one shot at telling them that God loves them. Some of them knew, that was apparent, but even when we know that there is always more of His love we can encounter, and that was my goal. Stretch the ideal of what love is if possible in this place. I was so scared I would miss the opportunity to share His love that I almost missed what happened.

Before worship the men led a prayer time where they prayed for their families, each other, the guards, and me. I was amazed by their love towards the people who ran this place and the honesty in their prayers. The difference in temperature from the cold unrelenting iron bars, and razor wire fence outside compared to the warmth that permeated this room was noticeable. A man sat at the piano that even though out of tune made a beautiful sound. It was a simple melody 3 maybe 4 chords, but the sound was quite lovely. The sound of the poorly tuned piano was quickly drowned out by the voices of men that turned into voices of angels. The room was filled with off key, and over singing men that somehow when combined with the words produced something marvelous. For a moment in time God gave me His ears, and let me hear what it sounds like when His children sing praises to Him. The imperfections remained, but the sound was different. It was not about the way it sounded but what it was; no longer did I hear altos or baritones, but thankful redeemed sinners rejoicing in the God who loves them.

At this moment my anxiety cleared up like a rain soaked road after a storm when the sun hits it. I was free not only to share how God had done the same thing in my life that He had done in theirs, but how He desires to take us further than we expect. Sometimes the place we are going is not where we would ever expect to go. We might not ever choose to go there, but we open our eyes to find ourselves standing in a situation bigger than us. If we are willing to go to places that intimidate, scare, or even terrify us we can catch a glimpse a heaven.