Daily Reading Week 29
Sunday
John 1:9-18
DISCOVER
Early in the book of John, we’re given a description of Jesus. How does John describe Jesus? What are the 2 big words John chose to use to describe Jesus’s life?
How can we make sure that we’re leading and loving others with grace and truth?
How do we see the glory of God through Jesus, described as “the one and only Son, who came from the Father”? In what ways can we reflect God’s glory in our communities?
RESPOND
John begins by affirming the eternal nature and divinity of Jesus Christ, referring to Him as the Word (Logos) who was with God from the beginning and through whom all things were created. The Word is described as being both with God and being God Himself.
John the Baptist is introduced as a witness to testify about the light, which represents Jesus Christ. He declares that he is not the light but came to bear witness to the true light, who enlightens everyone.
The passage emphasizes that though the world was made through the Word, the world did not recognize Him. However, to those who did receive Him, He gave the right to become children of God, born not of human descent but of God.
The chapter concludes with the account of Jesus calling His first disciples, including Andrew, Simon Peter, Philip, and Nathanael. Each encounter shows Jesus' authority and ability to call individuals into discipleship.
Overall, John 1 establishes Jesus as the divine Word incarnate, who brings light and life to the world, and it sets the stage for the unfolding narrative of His ministry and teachings throughout the Gospel.
Monday
John 8
DISCOVER
Have you ever been in a situation where you had to choose between judgment and mercy? How did you handle it?
In what ways can we reflect the light of Jesus in our daily lives?
Are there areas in your life where you feel enslaved by sin? How can you seek Jesus' freedom in those areas?
RESPOND
In John 8 we read about Jesus' encounter with opponents who have brought Him a woman guilty of sin. In this incident, Jesus demonstrates that these men are acting hypocritically: attempting to trick Jesus using the law, while they themselves are not completely following it! At the same time, Jesus shows that simply having power, such as the authority to execute a guilty sinner, does not make using it the best choice. Instead, Jesus demonstrates mercy and fully applies both the letter and intent of the law, as God intended: with "right judgment."
This chapter presents a riveting exploration of light versus darkness, truth versus deception, and freedom versus bondage. Through His dialogues, Jesus reveals His divine nature, inviting all to embrace the light and liberating truth He offers. The chapter challenges us to reflect on our spiritual condition and inspires us to step into the light of Christ's truth, breaking free from the bondage of sin.
John 8, a centerpiece of the Gospel, is a profound narrative filled with dynamic dialogue and riveting confrontations. It opens with an account of an adulterous woman brought before Jesus and culminates in a poignant discourse between Jesus and the Jewish leaders, punctuated by His powerful assertion, "Before Abraham was born, I am."
Tuesday
John 9
DISCOVER
Why do the disciples assume the man’s blindness is due to sin? What does this reveal about their understanding of suffering?
How does Jesus' response to their question challenge common beliefs about the relationship between sin and suffering?
Are there areas in your life where you feel spiritually blind? How can you seek Jesus’ help to gain sight?
RESPOND
John 9 masterfully illustrates the transition from darkness to light, both physically and spiritually. Jesus, as the Light of the World, heals physical blindness and illuminates spiritual understanding. Despite facing skepticism and persecution, the healed man's faith in Jesus strengthens, embodying the transformative power of encountering Christ. The chapter compels us to reflect on our spiritual sight, encouraging us to embrace the illuminating light of Jesus' teachings.
This is a remarkable chapter that presents an account of Jesus healing a man born blind. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' power over physical afflictions but also serves as a metaphor for spiritual blindness. The narrative unfolds through various reactions to the miracle, ultimately leading to a profound exploration of faith, perception, and spiritual understanding.
Wednesday
John 10
DISCOVER
What characteristics of a good shepherd does Jesus describe?
How does this passage deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission and His relationship with His followers?
How does Jesus’ claim, “I and the Father are one,” challenge the religious leaders? What does this statement teach us about the nature of Jesus' relationship with God the Father?
RESPOND
John 10 provides a rich, comforting portrait of Jesus as the Good Shepherd and the gate, providing guidance, protection, and eternal life. His teachings elicit varied reactions, underscoring the theme of belief versus unbelief. The chapter is a profound reminder of Jesus' sacrificial love, His divine authority, and the assurance He offers to His followers. It inspires us to listen to His voice and follow Him faithfully in our life journey.
This chapter continues the rich metaphorical discourse of Jesus, presenting the compelling imagery of the Shepherd and the sheep. Through His teachings, Jesus clearly explains His unique roles as the Good Shepherd and the gate for the sheep, offering a deeper understanding of His divine mission, sacrificial love, and assurance of eternal life.
Thursday
John 11
DISCOVER
How can we understand and trust in God’s timing when it doesn’t align with our expectations?
What does Jesus mean when He says, “I am the resurrection and the life”? How does this statement impact Martha’s faith?
How do Martha, Mary, and the disciples demonstrate faith in action? How can we apply their examples of faith and trust in our own lives, especially in difficult circumstances?
RESPOND
John 11 serves as a profound testament to Jesus’ power, compassion, and identity as the Messiah. It reveals the deep emotional connection Jesus had with His friends and underscores His ability to bring life even in the face of death, preparing His disciples for the ultimate act of resurrection that would follow His own death.
In addition, this chapter offers a narrative highlighting Jesus' ultimate power over life and death. This chapter illuminates the hope and life that comes from faith in Jesus, even in the face of death, urging believers to find comfort, strength, and confidence in Him.
For all those who trust in Jesus, death will not be the end of the story. Life, resurrection will be the end of the story forever and ever. This is a basic truth of the gospel. What John 3:16, maybe the most famous verse in the Bible says, says that whoever believes in Jesus will not perish but have everlasting life and all who believe the gospel know this.
Friday
John 12
DISCOVER
What does Mary’s act of anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume signify? How does this act of devotion challenge our own expressions of love and worship for Jesus?
Beginning in verse 12, Why are the Pharisees disturbed by the crowd’s reaction to Jesus?
How do the actions of Mary and the crowd during the triumphal entry serve as models for our own expressions of devotion and worship? In what ways can we show our love and gratitude to Jesus in our daily lives?
RESPOND
Here, in chapter 12, we find the last of Jesus' public teachings prior to the crucifixion. Chapters 13—17 will contain only private instruction given by Christ in the hours before He is arrested. This will be followed by His arrest, sentencing, death, and resurrection.
In an act of worship, Mary poured her perfume onto Jesus’ feet. She knelt to the ground and washed His feet, ignoring the opinions of others. Mary gave radically. She gave not knowing if she’d be able to live through the day, but trusting Jesus anyway. She gave with such extravagance that the disciples told her she’d given too much.
To put Mary’s situation in today’s terms, it would be like going to church next Sunday, feeling called to give, and writing a check for your entire year’s salary! Yet, this is the same way God gave to us. He gave His best when He gave us Jesus. God not only calls us to radical faith, He calls us to radical giving.
Saturday
John 13
DISCOVER
Why does Peter initially resist Jesus washing his feet? How does Jesus’ response to Peter (v. 8) highlight the importance of accepting Jesus’ service and cleansing?
How does the new commandment to love one another as Jesus loved us shape our understanding of Christian community?
How does Jesus’ teaching in this chapter define what it means to be His disciple? How can we strive to live out this identity in a way that honors Jesus and attracts others to Him?
RESPOND
John 13 portrays Jesus' profound act of washing His disciples' feet, demonstrating servant leadership, and imparting the new commandment to love one another as He prepares them for His impending departure. This chapter showcases Jesus' humility, love, and the foundational principles of discipleship that emphasize service and unity among believers.
This chapter contains a pretty famous verse (John 13:14). This verse comes right in the middle of Jesus washing his disciple’s feet. You can just imagine the intensity of that scene as their Lord and teacher, the one they look up to and respect, even revere, has just gotten down on the floor and washed their feet, done what they would only expect the most lowly servant to do. Jesus has just redefined greatness with a towel and a basin. He is just stooped to be their servant and in the process, shows them what it means to be their Lord.
In addtion, John 13 introduces the Last Supper, providing a remarkable picture of Jesus' humility, love, and knowledge of upcoming events. This chapter is significant as it showcases Jesus washing His disciples' feet, predicting Judas' betrayal and Peter's denial, and issuing the new commandment of love.