In what ways does John 7:35 connect to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19? Setting the Scene John 7 unfolds at the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus is teaching publicly, stirring debate about His identity and future plans. Verse 35 captures the puzzled response of many Jewish listeners: “Where does He intend to go that we will not find Him? Will He go to the Dispersion among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks?” (John 7:35) A Prophetic Hint of Global Reach • “Dispersion among the Greeks” points to Jewish communities scattered across the Greco-Roman world—already embedded in Gentile culture. • The question, “Will He … teach the Greeks?” unintentionally foreshadows Jesus’ worldwide teaching ministry, soon to continue through His followers. • Their curiosity anticipates the gospel’s expansion from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Great Commission Answer Matthew 28:19 brings the implicit idea of John 7:35 into full light: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. Key Connections • Scope – John 7:35 wonders if the message will cross ethnic lines. – Matthew 28:19 mandates it: “all nations.” • Teaching Focus – The Jews imagine Jesus personally “teaching the Greeks.” – The Commission commands, “teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (v. 20). • Gentiles in View – “Greeks” in John 7:35 represent the broader Gentile world. – Paul later celebrates this inclusion: “The Gentiles are fellow heirs” (Ephesians 3:6). • Mission Progression – Question in John: speculative, almost skeptical. – Answer in Matthew: authoritative, clear, and empowering. • Divine Plan – Isaiah 49:6 foretold a Servant “a light for the nations.” – Jesus fulfills that promise and then commissions His church to carry it forward. Supporting Passages • Luke 24:46-47 — “repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in His name to all nations.” • Acts 13:47 — the apostles apply Isaiah 49:6 to their Gentile mission. • Romans 15:11-12 — Scripture anticipates Gentile praise alongside Israel. • Revelation 7:9 — vision of every nation, tribe, people, and tongue around the throne. Why This Matters Today • Our mission is rooted in Jesus’ own intent hinted at in John 7:35 and clarified in Matthew 28:19. • Skepticism becomes certainty: the gospel really is for everyone—neighbors and nations alike. • We teach, baptize, and disciple with confidence that we are continuing the work Jesus foretold and authorized. |
    |