Berean Study Bible Mary Anoints JesusJesus arrived as Jerusalem was filling with pilgrims for Israel’s great feast of redemption. The approaching Passover would coincide with His death, as He would give His life as the true sacrifice for sin. Jhn 13:1 It was now just before the Passover Feast,… Jesus came to Bethany, Bethany was a village on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, about two miles from Jerusalem. During the final days before the crucifixion, it provided Jesus with a familiar place of rest outside the city. Mat 21:17 Then He left them and went out of the city to Bethany… the hometown of Lazarus, Jesus came to Bethany, the hometown of Lazarus and his sisters, Mary and Martha. Lazarus was widely known because Jesus had raised him from the dead there. Jhn 11:1 At this time a man named Lazarus was sick.… whom He had raised from the dead. Lazarus’s restoration to life displayed Jesus’ authority over death and intensified both public interest in Him and the hostility of the religious leaders who sought to stop Him. Jhn 11:43-44 After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice… So they hosted a dinner for Jesus there. In Bethany, shortly before Passover, Jesus was honored by those who had witnessed or known of Lazarus’s resurrection. The meal expressed gratitude and fellowship in a household closely connected to Him. Mat 26:6-13 While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper,… Martha served, As she had done before, Martha attended to the practical needs of the guests. Her work helped provide for the gathering and reflected her devoted care for Jesus. Luk 10:38-42 As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village… and Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with Him. Lazarus’s presence publicly confirmed that he had truly been raised from the dead. As he shared the meal with Jesus, he stood as a living witness to Christ’s authority over death. Jhn 11:43-44 After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice… Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, brought a large quantity of costly perfume in an act of deliberate devotion. Such an offering represented great personal value and sacrifice. Mat 26:7 a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar… made of pure nard, The perfume was genuine nard, a rare and costly oil imported from India. Its value made it suitable for royal honor and burial preparation, pointing to Jesus’ approaching death. Mrk 14:3 While Jesus was in Bethany reclining at the table… and she anointed Jesus’ feet Mary honored Jesus with humility and love. Anointing His feet anticipated His burial and recognized the unique dignity of the Messiah, the Anointed One, who had raised her brother. Luk 7:38 As she stood behind Him at His feet weeping, she began… and wiped them with her hair. By loosening her hair and using it to wipe His feet, Mary set aside social propriety to express personal devotion to Jesus. Luk 7:44 And turning toward the woman, He said to Simon,… And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. The perfume’s fragrance filled the room, making Mary’s costly act known to everyone present and setting the scene for Judas’s objection. 2Co 2:14-15 But thanks be to God, who always leads us… But one of His disciples, Judas belonged to the Twelve and had shared in Jesus’ ministry, teaching, and miracles. His betrayal came from within the closest circle of followers. Mat 10:4 Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus. Judas Iscariot, Judas was distinguished from the other disciple named Judas and was likely from Kerioth in Judea. Though entrusted with responsibility among the disciples, he was increasingly ruled by greed and unbelief. Jhn 6:71 He was speaking about Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot.… who was going to betray Him, Jesus knew Judas’s coming treachery. Judas would hand Him over to the religious leaders, setting in motion the arrest and crucifixion foretold in God’s plan while remaining accountable for his own sin. Jhn 13:2 The evening meal was underway, and the devil… asked, Judas’s question appears concerned with the poor, but his motives were corrupt. His outward association with Jesus concealed a heart turned against Him. Mat 26:25 Then Judas, who would betray Him, said… “Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii Judas Iscariot objected to Mary’s anointing of Jesus in Bethany. The costly nard was worth nearly a laborer’s annual wage, making her act appear extravagant by ordinary standards. Yet Mary honored Jesus as He approached His death. Mrk 14:5 It could have been sold for over three hundred denarii… and the money given to the poor?” Judas used concern for the poor to criticize Mary, but his words concealed a selfish heart. His objection contrasted sharply with Mary’s devotion and foreshadowed his betrayal of Jesus. Mat 19:21 If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions… Judas did not say this because he cared about the poor, His objection to Mary’s costly gift was not driven by compassion for the needy. Though care for the poor was part of the disciples’ shared ministry, Judas used their needs as a respectable cover for his own greed. Mrk 14:4-5 Some of those present, however, expressed their indignation… but because he was a thief. Judas had already shown a corrupt character long before he openly betrayed Jesus. His outward place among the Twelve concealed a heart set on personal gain. Eph 4:28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work… As keeper of the money bag, The disciples entrusted Judas with the funds used to support their travel, daily needs, and assistance to others. He held a position of responsibility within Jesus’ company. Jhn 13:29 Since Judas kept the money bag, some thought… he used to take from what was put into it. Judas repeatedly stole from the common funds. His secret dishonesty foreshadowed his later decision to hand Jesus over for money, revealing that his betrayal grew from a long-standing love of gain. Act 5:1-4 Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife… “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. Jesus rebuked Judas Iscariot for criticizing Mary’s costly act of devotion. Judas’s concern for the poor concealed his greed, while Mary honored Jesus in a way the others had failed to understand. Mrk 14:6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone; why are you bothering her?… “She has kept this perfume The pure nard was rare and expensive, likely imported from India. Mary had reserved it for Jesus, treating Him with the honor due to a king. Mrk 14:3 While Jesus was in Bethany reclining at the table… in preparation for the day of My burial. Jesus identified her anointing as preparation for His approaching death. Bodies were commonly treated with spices and perfumes before burial, and Mary’s act pointed to His coming crucifixion and burial. Mat 26:12 By pouring this perfume on Me, she has prepared My body… The poor you will always have with you, Poverty would remain a continuing reality, and God’s people were still responsible to care for those in need. Jesus was not excusing neglect of the poor but responding to the unique moment surrounding His approaching death. Mat 26:11 The poor you will always have with you… but you will not always have Me.” His earthly ministry was nearing its end, and His disciples would soon lose His physical presence through His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. Mary’s anointing prepared Him for burial and recognized the significance of the hour. Jhn 16:16 In a little while you will see Me no more,…
The Plot to Kill LazarusNews of Jesus’ arrival in Bethany spread quickly after the raising of Lazarus. Many people from Jerusalem and the surrounding region came during the days leading up to Passover, when the area was already crowded with pilgrims. Jhn 11:55-56 Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people… And they came not only because of Him, Jesus’ public ministry and His miracles had drawn widespread attention, but the recent events in Bethany gave the people an additional reason to come. Jhn 6:26 but because you ate the loaves and had your fill.… but also to see Lazarus, Lazarus was visible proof of what Jesus had done. His presence confirmed the report that he had been raised after four days in the tomb. Jhn 11:45-46 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary,… whom He had raised from the dead. Lazarus’ resurrection revealed Jesus’ authority over death and intensified both the people’s interest and the religious leaders’ opposition. Jhn 11:43-44 After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice… So the chief priests The leading temple authorities, largely associated with the Sadducees, held great influence in the Sanhedrin and worked to preserve religious order under Roman rule. Jhn 11:47-48 Then the chief priests and Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin… made plans Their decision was deliberate, driven by fear that Jesus’ growing influence would weaken their authority. Jhn 11:53 So from that day on they plotted to kill Him. to kill Lazarus Lazarus’s public resurrection had led many people to believe in Jesus, making him a powerful witness to Christ’s authority over death. Removing Lazarus would eliminate evidence they could not deny. 1Sa 19:1-2 Then Saul ordered his son Jonathan and all his servants… as well, Their plot now extended beyond Jesus to those whose lives and testimony drew others to Him. Act 12:3-4 And seeing that this pleased the Jews, Herod proceeded… for on account of him Lazarus’s public resurrection had become undeniable evidence of Jesus’ authority over death. His presence drew attention to the sign Jesus had performed. Jhn 11:45 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary,… many of the Jews Many people from Judea, including those connected with Jerusalem, were hearing of Lazarus and responding to what they had seen or learned. Jhn 11:19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary… were deserting them The growing response to Jesus weakened the influence of the chief priests and other leaders who opposed Him and had already determined to silence both Jesus and Lazarus. Jhn 6:66 From that time on many of His disciples turned back… and believing in Jesus. Lazarus’s resurrection led many to place their faith in Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God. Jhn 8:30 As Jesus spoke these things, many believed in Him.
The Triumphal EntryJesus left Bethany after the supper in His honor and approached Jerusalem during the Passover season. Mrk 11:12 The next day, when they had left Bethany, Jesus was hungry. the great crowd Pilgrims and others gathered in and around the city for the festival, many already aware of Jesus’ miracles and teaching. Mat 21:8 A massive crowd spread their cloaks on the road… that had come to the feast Passover commemorated Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and drew worshipers from throughout the Jewish world. Jhn 11:55-56 Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people… heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. News of His arrival stirred expectation as Jesus entered the city where His final public ministry, death, and resurrection would take place. Mat 21:9-10 The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed… They took palm branches The branches expressed joy, victory, and national hope, recalling Israel’s worship and celebrations. Rev 7:9 After this I looked and saw a multitude too large to count… and went out to meet Him, The crowd welcomed Jesus as He entered Jerusalem, treating Him as a royal and messianic leader. Jhn 11:20 So when Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out… shouting: “Hosanna!” Their cry, “Hosanna” (“Save, please” or “Save now”), called for God’s saving intervention and reflected their expectation that Jesus would deliver Israel. Mat 21:9 The crowds that went ahead of Him and those that followed… “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” They identified Him as God’s chosen representative, sent to fulfill His purposes. Psa 118:26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.… “Blessed is the King of Israel!” The people openly hailed Jesus as Israel’s promised King, though many expected political liberation rather than the spiritual kingdom He came to establish. Jhn 1:49 “Rabbi,” Nathanael answered, “You are the Son of God!”… Finding a young donkey, Jesus chose an animal associated with humble service and peace rather than military conquest. His entrance into Jerusalem identified Him as the promised King while rejecting popular expectations of a militant deliverer. Luk 19:30 “Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it”… Jesus sat on it, He deliberately entered the city in humility, openly presenting Himself as Messiah. His kingship would be established through obedience to the Father and sacrificial death, not political force. Mrk 11:7 Then they led the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks… as it is written: Jesus’ actions unfolded according to God’s revealed plan, confirming the reliability of Scripture and the divine purpose of His mission. Zec 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph… “Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion. Jerusalem is addressed as the covenant city and its people. Though the city stood under Roman rule and many longed for national deliverance, Jesus’ arrival showed that God had not abandoned His promises. Zep 3:16 On that day they will say to Jerusalem: “Do not fear…”… See, your King is coming, Jesus entered Jerusalem openly as Israel’s promised King. His coming fulfilled the prophetic expectation of a righteous ruler from David’s line, yet His kingdom would not be established through political revolt or military power. Zec 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph… seated on the colt of a donkey.” Riding a donkey identified Him as a king coming in peace rather than war. Jesus deliberately fulfilled Zechariah’s prophecy and revealed the character of His reign: humble, righteous, and bringing salvation through His sacrificial death. Mat 21:2-7 “Go into the village ahead of you, and at once…”… At first His disciples did not understand these things, Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem fulfilled Scripture, yet the disciples did not grasp its full significance at the time. Like many in Israel, they expected the Messiah to establish an earthly kingdom in power and did not yet understand that He must first suffer, die, and rise again. Luk 18:34 But the disciples did not understand any of these things… but after Jesus was glorified Jesus was glorified through His death, resurrection, and ascension. After His resurrection, He opened the disciples’ minds to understand the Scriptures, and the coming of the Holy Spirit gave them clearer understanding of His person and work. Act 2:33 Exalted, then, to the right hand of God,… they remembered what had been done to Him, In light of the completed events, the disciples recalled Jesus’ words, His actions, and the circumstances surrounding His entry into Jerusalem. Their memories were not merely recollections but a growing recognition of God’s purpose in all that had occurred. Jhn 2:22 He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered… and they realized that these very things had also been written about Him. They recognized that Jesus had fulfilled the Scriptures concerning the Messiah. His humble arrival, rejection, suffering, and ultimate victory were all according to God’s revealed plan. Luk 24:44-45 Jesus said to them, “These are the words I spoke to you… Meanwhile, many people who had been with Jesus A crowd had witnessed the events at Bethany, where Lazarus’s death and burial were well known. Their presence gave public weight to what Jesus had done. Jhn 11:45 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary,… when He called Lazarus from the tomb Lazarus had been dead four days when Jesus summoned him from the grave. The miracle revealed Jesus’ authority over death and confirmed His claim to be the resurrection and the life. Jhn 11:43-44 After Jesus had said this, He called out in a loud voice… and raised him from the dead Lazarus emerged alive before many witnesses, leaving no room to dismiss the event as rumor or misunderstanding. The miracle increased Jesus’ public influence and intensified the hostility of the religious leaders. Jhn 11:23-24 “Your brother will rise again,” Jesus told her.… continued to testify. Those who saw Lazarus raised kept telling others what had happened. Their reports helped draw the crowds who welcomed Jesus as He entered Jerusalem. Jhn 19:35 The one who saw it has testified to this, and his testimony…… That is also why the crowd went out to meet Him, The raising of Lazarus in nearby Bethany had become widely known in Jerusalem. Many who had witnessed the miracle testified about it, drawing others to Jesus as He entered the city. His arrival stirred hopes that He was the promised Messiah. Mat 21:8-9 A massive crowd spread their cloaks on the road… because they heard that He had performed this sign. Lazarus’s resurrection displayed Jesus’ authority over death and confirmed the significance of His claims. The miracle became a central reason for the public response to Him, while also intensifying the opposition of the religious leaders. Jhn 11:45-46 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to Mary,… Then the Pharisees said to one another, Alarmed by the crowds welcoming Jesus into Jerusalem, the Pharisees openly acknowledged their growing frustration. Their repeated efforts to silence or discredit Him had not stopped His influence. Mat 12:14 But the Pharisees went out and plotted… “You can see that this is doing you no good. Their opposition had produced no result. Instead, Jesus’ public ministry, miracles, and teaching had drawn increasing attention and exposed the weakness of their attempts to preserve their authority. Jhn 11:48 If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him,… Look how the whole world has gone after Him!” The Pharisees spoke in dismay as they saw people from across the region gathering around Jesus. His ministry was reaching beyond the religious leaders’ control, and even Gentiles were beginning to seek Him. Jhn 3:26 So John’s disciples came to him and said, “Look, Rabbi,…
Jesus Predicts His DeathThese were Greeks—Gentiles, specifically God-fearers or proselytes, non-Jews who worshiped the God of Israel—who had come to Jerusalem during Passover. Their presence shows that interest in Israel’s God and in Jesus had extended beyond the Jewish people, anticipating the gathering of the nations through the Messiah. Jhn 7:35 At this, the Jews said to one another,… among those who went up to worship They joined the crowds traveling to the temple for the festival, participating in the worship permitted to Gentiles. Their arrival marks an important moment as Jesus approached His death, through which salvation would be made known to all peoples. 1Sa 1:3 Year after year Elkanah would go up from his city… at the feast. Passover commemorated Israel’s deliverance from Egypt and drew worshipers from throughout the Jewish world and beyond. During this feast Jesus would be crucified, fulfilling the meaning of the Passover sacrifice. Jhn 11:55 Now the Jewish Passover was near, and many people… They came to Philip, Philip was one of the Twelve and bore a Greek name, which may have made him a natural person for these Greek-speaking worshipers to approach. His presence in the account shows that Jesus’ disciples were already encountering people beyond the Jewish community. Act 8:30-31 So Philip ran up and heard the man reading Isaiah… who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, Bethsaida stood near the Sea of Galilee and was also associated with Peter and Andrew. Galilee’s mixed population and frequent contact with surrounding regions formed part of the setting in which Jesus gathered His followers. Jhn 1:44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the same town… and requested of him, The visitors approached Philip respectfully, seeking access to Jesus rather than merely observing the festival crowds. Their request marks the growing interest of Gentiles in Jesus and His mission. Act 8:34-35 “Tell me,” said the eunuch, “who is the prophet talking about…… “Sir, we want to see Jesus.” They recognized Philip as one of Jesus’ followers and desired a personal audience with Jesus. Their words anticipate the widening reach of Christ’s ministry beyond Israel to people from every nation. Jhn 1:38-39 Jesus turned and saw them following. “What do you want?”… Philip relayed this appeal to Andrew, Philip brought the request to Andrew, who joined him in bringing it before Jesus. Their careful response reflects the significance of Greeks seeking the Messiah and anticipates the gathering of Gentiles into God’s saving purpose. Jhn 1:43-46 The next day Jesus decided to set out for Galilee.… and both of them went and told Jesus. Together they presented the matter directly to Jesus, recognizing His authority to answer the request. Their report immediately precedes Jesus’ announcement that the hour had come for the Son of Man to be glorified through His death. Jhn 1:41-42 He first found his brother Simon and told him,… But Jesus replied, But Jesus replied by directing attention to the decisive event toward which His ministry had been moving. The arrival of Greeks seeking Him signaled that His mission was extending beyond Israel to the nations. Jhn 13:31-32 When Judas had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified,… “The hour has come God’s appointed time for the completion of Christ’s earthly work has arrived. His death, resurrection, and return to the Father are now imminent. Mrk 14:41 When Jesus returned the third time, He said,… for the Son of Man Jesus identifies Himself as the promised Messiah and representative of humanity, invested with divine authority and destined to rule. Dan 7:13-14 In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw… to be glorified. His glory would be revealed through the cross, resurrection, and ascension. Though the cross appeared as humiliation and shame in human eyes, it would accomplish redemption, reveal Jesus’ divine nature, fulfill His earthly mission, and display the Father’s purpose in the Son. Jhn 17:5 And now, Father, glorify Me in Your presence… Truly, truly, I tell you, Jesus solemnly announces the certainty of what He is about to reveal as He approaches His crucifixion. Jhn 3:3 Jesus replied, “Truly, truly, I tell you,… unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, A grain of wheat must be planted and buried before new life can come from it. Jesus uses this familiar image to point to His coming death and burial. 1Co 15:36 You fool! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. it remains only a seed. Left unplanted, the seed remains unchanged and produces nothing beyond itself. 1Co 15:37-38 And what you sow is not the body that will be,… But if it dies, it bears much fruit. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus would bring salvation to many and establish a people who would belong to Him. Jhn 15:5 I am the vine and you are the branches… Whoever loves his life will lose it, Those who make self-preservation, comfort, ambition, or worldly gain their highest aim ultimately forfeit the life God gives. Jesus spoke as He approached His death, showing that true life is found through surrender to God rather than devotion to oneself. Luk 17:33 Whoever tries to save his life will lose it… but whoever hates his life in this world This does not command self-contempt, but uses “hates” hyperbolically to mean loving less or choosing spiritual values over earthly life. It calls for a decisive refusal to place earthly life above obedience to Christ. The present world and its values are temporary and often opposed to God’s purposes. Luk 14:26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father”… will keep it for eternal life. Those who belong to Christ receive life that death cannot take away: lasting fellowship with God, secured through the saving work of Jesus and fulfilled in resurrection. Jhn 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish.… If anyone serves Me, Jesus calls those who belong to Him to a life marked by faithful service. His followers are not merely admirers of His works but are committed to His person, teaching, and mission. Col 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being,… he must follow Me; Such service requires obedience to the path He walked, including humility, sacrifice, and submission to the Father’s will. Jhn 10:27 My sheep listen to My voice; I know them… and where I am, My servant will be as well. Those who follow Christ share fellowship with Him now and will ultimately be with Him in His glory. Jhn 17:24 Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me… If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. God the Father receives and honors those who faithfully serve His Son, granting them the lasting approval that surpasses earthly recognition. 1Sa 2:30 Therefore, the LORD, the God of Israel, declares:… Now My soul is troubled, Jesus faces the approaching reality of His death with genuine human anguish. He knows the suffering, rejection, and bearing of sin that lie ahead, yet He does not turn from the Father’s purpose. Mat 26:38 My soul is consumed with sorrow to the point of death.… and what shall I say? He voices the weight of the moment while remaining fully obedient. The question reveals no uncertainty about His mission, but the real cost of carrying it out. Luk 22:42 Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me.… ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? Deliverance from suffering would mean avoiding the sacrifice for which He came. Jesus acknowledges the natural desire to escape the coming ordeal without yielding to it. Heb 5:7 During the days of Jesus’ earthly life, He offered up… No, it is for this purpose that I have come to this hour. His death is not an accident or defeat but the appointed fulfillment of His mission. He willingly goes forward as the Lamb of God, giving His life to bring salvation. Jhn 18:37 “Then You are a king!” Pilate said. You say that I am a king… Father, glorify Your name!” Facing the cross, Jesus submits fully to the Father’s redemptive purpose. His suffering and death would reveal God’s holiness, justice, mercy, and love through the salvation He provides. Psa 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory… Then a voice came from heaven: God the Father audibly answered before the crowd, publicly confirming Jesus’ mission and authority as the Son sent to accomplish His will. Mat 3:17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is My beloved… “I have glorified it, God’s name had been glorified through Jesus’ faithful ministry, His works, His teaching, and His revelation of the Father’s character. Jhn 17:4 I have glorified You on earth by accomplishing… and I will glorify it again.” The Father would be glorified supremely through Jesus’ death, resurrection, and exaltation. What appeared to be Christ’s humiliation at the cross would become the means by which God accomplished redemption and displayed His glory. Jhn 13:31-32 When Judas had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified,… The crowd standing there heard it Those present included pilgrims in Jerusalem for Passover and others drawn by Jesus’ public ministry and recent miracles. Coming soon after His entry into the city, the event occurred before a large and interested audience. Mat 3:17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is My beloved… and said that it had thundered. Some heard the heavenly voice only as a powerful sound. Like thunder, it conveyed God’s majesty, yet they did not understand the message spoken to Jesus. Exo 19:16 On the third day, when morning came, there was thunder… Others said that an angel had spoken to Him. Others recognized that the sound came from a heavenly source, though they did not grasp that the Father had spoken directly concerning the glorification of His name through the Son. Act 23:9 A great clamor arose, and some scribes from the party… In response, Jesus said, Jesus addressed the crowd after the Father’s voice was heard from heaven, confirming the significance of the moment and directing attention to its purpose. Jhn 8:28-29 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man,… “This voice was not for My benefit, Jesus did not need reassurance concerning His identity or mission. He knew the Father’s will and was moving willingly toward the cross. Jhn 11:42 I knew that You always hear Me, but I say this… but yours. The voice was given so those present would understand that Jesus had been sent by the Father. It confirmed His authority and called the crowd to recognize Him as the promised Messiah. Jhn 13:19 I am telling you now before it happens… Now judgment is upon this world; Jesus’ approaching crucifixion marks God’s decisive judgment against sin, rebellion, and the fallen order of the world. His death exposes the guilt of those who reject God while providing the means of redemption for those who believe in Him. The judgment has begun in Christ’s coming and will be completed when He returns. Jhn 9:39 Then Jesus declared, “For judgment I have come… now the prince of this world will be cast out. Satan’s authority over fallen humanity is broken through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Though he continues to oppose God’s people and deceive the nations, he no longer holds ultimate dominion. Christ’s victory guarantees Satan’s final defeat and the complete removal of evil at the end of the age. Jhn 16:11 and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world… And I, Jesus speaks with divine authority, identifying Himself as the One through whom God’s saving purpose will be accomplished. Jhn 18:37 “Then You are a king!” Pilate said. You say that I am a king… when I am lifted up from the earth, He points to His coming crucifixion, when He would be lifted up, physically raised on the cross outside Jerusalem. His death would also become the beginning of His exaltation and glorification, leading to His resurrection and return to the Father. Jhn 8:28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man,… will draw everyone to Myself.” Through His sacrificial death, Jesus draws people from every nation and background with an irresistible attraction, opening the way of salvation. His work removes the barriers that separated Jew and Gentile, calling all who believe in Him into fellowship with God. Jhn 6:44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me… He said this Jesus spoke publicly to prepare the crowd for His approaching suffering, showing that His death was part of the Father’s purpose. Luk 18:31-33 Then Jesus took the Twelve aside and said to them… to indicate His words revealed that He knew the manner of His death beforehand. Being lifted up referred to His crucifixion and the glory that would follow. Jhn 18:32 This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken… the kind of death Roman crucifixion was a shameful and brutal execution reserved for the condemned. Jesus would be delivered to Roman authority and crucified outside Jerusalem. Act 5:30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus,… He was going to die. His death was voluntary obedience to the Father and the means by which He would bear the judgment for sin, followed by His resurrection. Jhn 10:17-18 The reason the Father loves Me is that I lay down My life… The crowd replied, The people answered as a group, reflecting the widespread expectations of Israel concerning the Messiah. Many had heard Jesus speak and had seen His works, yet His words about His coming death did not fit the deliverer they expected. Jhn 7:20 “You have a demon,” the crowd replied.… “We have heard from the Law that the Christ will remain forever. By “the Law,” they meant the Scriptures as a whole, which promised an enduring reign for God’s Anointed One. They expected the Messiah to establish a permanent kingdom and overthrow Israel’s enemies. Psa 89:36-37 his offspring shall endure forever, and his throne before Me… So how can You say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Jesus had spoken of being lifted up in death on the cross. The crowd could not reconcile a crucified Messiah with the promised eternal King. They understood the Son of Man as a figure of authority and everlasting dominion, but they did not grasp that His suffering would come before His glory. Jhn 8:28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man,… Who is this Son of Man?” Their question exposed their uncertainty about Jesus’ identity. Although He had openly revealed His mission, they remained divided between the Messiah described in Scripture and the Messiah they had imagined. Dan 7:13-14 In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw… Then Jesus told them, Jesus addressed the crowd during the final days before His crucifixion, calling them to respond while He was still openly among them. Mat 4:16 the people living in darkness have seen a great light;… “For a little while longer, the Light will be among you. Jesus, the true Light, would soon be taken from public view through His death, resurrection, and return to the Father. Jhn 13:33 Little children, I am with you only a little while longer.… Walk while you have the Light, They were to receive Him and live in obedience to the truth He revealed. Eph 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light… so that darkness will not overtake you. Rejecting Christ leaves a person under the power of sin, unbelief, and spiritual blindness. Jhn 1:5 The Light shines in the darkness, and… The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. Apart from Jesus, people lack the truth and direction that lead to God. 1Jn 2:11 But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness.… While you have the Light, Jesus, the Light of the World, was still among the people during the final days before His crucifixion. His presence revealed God’s truth and exposed the darkness of unbelief. Jhn 9:5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” believe in the Light, Jesus called His hearers to place their faith in Him as the Messiah and Son of God before His public ministry came to an end. Jhn 3:19-21 And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world…… so that you may become sons of light.” Those who receive Christ are brought into God’s family as sons of light, sharing in His truth and righteousness. 1Th 5:5 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day;… After Jesus had spoken these things, Having given this final public call to faith, Jesus concluded His open ministry among the crowds. Jhn 18:1 After Jesus had spoken these words, He went out… He went away and was hidden from them. His withdrawal anticipated His arrest and crucifixion, while also showing the consequences of continued rejection by those who had seen His works and heard His teaching. Jhn 8:59 At this, they picked up stones to throw at Him.…
Belief and UnbeliefJesus’ public miracles plainly revealed His authority and confirmed His mission. He gave sight to the blind, healed the sick, fed multitudes, and raised Lazarus from the dead. These works fulfilled what Israel’s Scriptures foretold of the Messiah’s saving power, yet many who witnessed them remained unmoved. Jhn 20:30-31 Jesus performed many other signs in the presence… they still did not believe in Him. Their rejection was not caused by lack of evidence but by hardened hearts and spiritual blindness. Like Israel in the wilderness, they had seen God’s works without responding in faith. Their unbelief also fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that the Lord’s revelation would be rejected. Human sin resists even clear truth, and genuine faith depends on God opening the heart to recognize Jesus for who He is. Jhn 1:11 He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet: Israel’s rejection of Jesus took place within God’s foretold plan. Isaiah had written that the Messiah’s message would be widely refused, even though God’s saving work was displayed openly through Him. Mat 1:22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said… “Lord, who has believed our message? Jesus’ signs and teaching had been witnessed by many, yet most of the people remained unwilling to believe. Their unbelief fulfilled Isaiah’s portrayal of the suffering servant being rejected. Isa 53:1 Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm… And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” God’s arm represents His power to save. That power was revealed in Jesus’ works, His sacrifice, and His victory over death, but only those who received God’s revelation recognized Him as the promised Messiah. Isa 52:10 The LORD has bared His holy arm in the sight of all the nations… For this reason they were unable to believe. Their continued rejection of Jesus’ signs and teaching resulted in judicial hardening. Though they had witnessed sufficient evidence, many had chosen unbelief, and God gave them over to the blindness they embraced. Their condition fulfilled the pattern of Israel’s repeated resistance to God’s revelation. Rom 11:7-8 What then? What Israel was seeking, it failed to obtain.… For again, Isaiah says: John identifies Israel’s unbelief as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophetic warning. Isaiah spoke to a nation hardened by persistent sin, yet his message also preserved the promise that God would accomplish His purposes. The rejection of Christ by many in Israel did not overturn God’s plan but occurred within the course foretold by the prophets. Isa 6:9-10 And He replied: “Go and tell this people, ‘Be ever hearing,… “He has blinded their eyes God’s judgment fell on those who repeatedly rejected the light given through Jesus’ words and miracles. Their unbelief fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy of a people who would hear God’s message yet refuse to receive it. Rom 11:8 “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see…”… and hardened their hearts, Their resistance was willful, especially among leaders who saw Christ’s works but would not confess Him as Messiah. God’s hardening confirmed them in the rebellion they had chosen. Exo 7:13 Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would… so that they cannot see with their eyes, Though they witnessed Jesus’ public ministry, they failed to recognize the truth revealed in Him. Act 28:27 For this people’s heart has grown callous;… and understand with their hearts, Their inward refusal kept them from receiving the message of salvation and acknowledging Jesus as the Son sent by the Father. Mat 13:15 For this people’s heart has grown callous;… and turn, Repentance required abandoning unbelief and turning to Christ in faith. Act 26:20 First to those in Damascus and Jerusalem,… and I would heal them.” God’s promised healing includes forgiveness, restoration, and reconciliation for those who repent and believe. Jer 3:22 “Return, O faithless children, and I will heal…”… Isaiah said these things Isaiah ministered in Judah during the eighth century BC, as Assyria threatened the region. His prophecies addressed Judah’s sin and coming judgment while also revealing God’s promised King and the future restoration of His people. Isa 53:1 Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm… because he saw Jesus’ glory Isaiah’s vision of the Lord enthroned in the temple revealed the divine glory later made known in Jesus Christ. John identifies the Lord Isaiah saw as the eternal Son, affirming Christ’s deity and His existence before His incarnation. Isa 6:1-5 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord… and spoke about Him. Isaiah foretold the Messiah’s righteous reign, His rejection, His suffering for the sins of others, and His ultimate exaltation. Jesus fulfilled these promises through His earthly ministry, death, resurrection, and glory. Act 8:34-35 “Tell me,” said the eunuch, “who is the prophet talking about…… Nevertheless, many of the leaders believed in Him. Jesus’ ministry reached beyond the crowds to members of Israel’s ruling class, including men connected with the Sanhedrin. Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea show that not every leader rejected Him, though their faith was often cautious and concealed. Jhn 3:1-2 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus… But because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, The Pharisees held considerable influence over synagogue life and public religious opinion. Openly identifying with Jesus could bring opposition from fellow leaders and threaten a man’s standing within his community. Jhn 7:13 Yet no one would speak publicly about Him… for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue. Exclusion from the synagogue meant more than losing a place of worship; it involved separation from the religious and social life of the Jewish community. Fear of that loss led some who believed in Jesus to remain silent rather than publicly acknowledge Him. Jhn 9:22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews.… For they loved praise from men Many rulers believed that Jesus was the Messiah, yet they refused to confess Him openly because the Pharisees threatened exclusion from the synagogue. Their concern for status, acceptance, and influence within the religious community outweighed their willingness to identify with Christ. Jhn 5:44 How can you believe if you accept glory from one another… more than praise from God. They chose the approval of religious leaders over the approval of the God they claimed to serve. Their hidden belief revealed that faith must involve more than inward agreement; allegiance to Christ requires valuing God’s judgment above public acceptance. Rom 2:29 No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly,… Then Jesus cried out, Jesus cried out publicly during the final days before His crucifixion, emphasizing the decisive significance of His identity and mission. Jhn 7:37 On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood up… “Whoever believes in Me Faith in Jesus means trusting Him as the Messiah and receiving the salvation He came to provide. His invitation extends to all without distinction. Jhn 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son… does not believe in Me alone, Faith in the Son cannot be separated from faith in God, for Jesus came as the Father’s true and perfect revelation. Jhn 14:1 Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God;… but in the One who sent Me. The Father sent Jesus into the world to accomplish His saving purpose. To receive Christ is to acknowledge the Father whose authority, will, and character Jesus perfectly reveals. Jhn 5:24 Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word… And whoever sees Me To see Jesus with faith is to recognize the incarnate Son and receive the revelation of God made known through Him. His works, words, and character displayed the Father’s authority and purpose. Jhn 14:9 Jesus replied, “Philip, I have been with you all this time…”… sees the One who sent Me. Jesus’ unity with the Father means that He perfectly reveals the God who sent Him into the world. Though distinct from the Father, He shares the divine nature and carries out the Father’s mission as the promised Messiah. Jhn 14:10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father… I have come into the world as a light, Jesus declares the purpose of His coming: to reveal God’s truth in a world darkened by sin, ignorance, and rebellion. Through His words and works, He makes the Father known and exposes the true condition of humanity. Jhn 1:9 The true Light, who gives light to everyone,… so that no one who believes in Me Faith involves trusting Jesus as the Son of God and receiving His authority and saving work. Those who believe in Him are brought into a new relationship with God. Jhn 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.”… should remain in darkness. Christ delivers believers from spiritual blindness, sin, and separation from God. Those who reject Him remain under the darkness His coming was sent to overcome. Col 1:13 He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness… As for anyone who hears My words and does not keep them, Hearing Jesus’ teaching brings personal responsibility. In Scripture, genuine hearing involves receiving and obeying God’s word; refusal to act on Christ’s teaching reveals unbelief and leaves a person accountable for his response. Jhn 14:24 Whoever does not love Me does not keep My words.… I do not judge him. During His first coming, Jesus did not come to pronounce final judgment on those who rejected Him. His ministry offered truth, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God, though rejection of that offer still carries consequences. Jhn 8:15 You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one. For I have not come to judge the world, Jesus’ incarnation was not the immediate overthrow of sinners or earthly powers that many expected from the Messiah. He entered a fallen world to accomplish God’s redemptive purpose through His death and resurrection. Jhn 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world… but to save the world. Christ came as the Savior for people from every nation, bearing sin and providing deliverance from judgment for all who believe in Him. Final judgment remains certain, but His first coming opened the way of salvation. 1Jn 4:14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent… There is a judge for the one who rejects Me Jesus makes clear that those who reject Him do not escape judgment. Because He is the Son sent by the Father, rejecting Him is rejecting the Father who sent Him. Every person remains accountable before God. Luk 10:16 Whoever listens to you listens to Me; whoever rejects you… and does not receive My words: To receive Jesus’ words is to accept His revelation, authority, and saving message. His teaching was not merely the opinion of a rabbi but the truth given by the Father. Refusal to receive it reveals unbelief toward God. Jhn 8:43 Why do you not understand what I am saying?… The word that I have spoken will judge him Jesus’ own words will stand as the standard of judgment. Those who heard His message and rejected it will be judged according to the truth they refused. His word exposes human sin and confirms God’s righteous verdict. Mat 12:36-37 But I tell you that men will give an account… on the last day. The judgment will take place at the final resurrection, when God brings history to its appointed conclusion. All people will answer for their response to Christ, and His kingdom will be fully established. Jhn 11:24 Martha replied, “I know that he will rise again… I have not spoken on My own, Jesus speaks in perfect obedience to the Father, revealing the complete unity of purpose between them. His words and works express the Father’s will rather than an independent human agenda. Jhn 14:10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father… but the Father who sent Me Jesus came into the world by the Father’s authority and for the mission the Father appointed: to reveal God and accomplish salvation. Jhn 8:16 But even if I do judge, My judgment is true,… has commanded Me what to say The Father entrusted Jesus with the message He was to proclaim, confirming that Christ’s teaching carries divine authority. Deu 18:18-19 I will raise up for them a prophet like you… and how to say it. Every part of Jesus’ ministry, including the manner of His teaching, faithfully made known the Father’s truth. Exo 4:12 “Now go! I will help you as you speak, and I will teach”… And I know that His command leads to eternal life. Jesus speaks with full knowledge of the Father’s will. God’s command brings eternal life because it directs people to receive the Son in faith. Eternal life begins with reconciliation to God and continues forever. Pro 19:16 He who keeps a commandment preserves his soul,… So I speak exactly what the Father has told Me to say.” Jesus faithfully delivers the message He received from the Father. His teaching carries divine authority, revealing God’s will and confirming His complete unity with the Father. Jhn 8:26 I have much to say about you and much to judge… This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com. Bible Hub |
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