What steps can we take to better understand Jesus' teachings, avoiding the disciples' confusion? A Moment of Misunderstanding John 4:33: “So the disciples asked one another, ‘Could someone have brought Him food?’” The disciples heard Jesus mention “food” and instantly thought of lunch. They missed His deeper point: absolute satisfaction comes from doing the Father’s will (v. 34). Why They Missed It • Focused on stomachs, not souls (Philippians 3:19) • Limited to what eyes could see (2 Corinthians 5:7) • Forgot recent lessons—He had just revealed Himself as living water (John 4:10, 14) Steps to Grasp Jesus’ Teaching Today • Seek illumination from the Spirit – John 14:26 “He will teach you all things.” – Psalm 119:18 “Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things…” – Pray before reading; expect understanding. • Read the whole conversation – Note context, audience, and flow (Luke 24:27). – Keep a habit of reading chapters, not isolated verses. • Compare Scripture with Scripture – 1 Corinthians 2:13 “Spiritual truths to spiritual words.” – Let clear passages explain difficult ones (e.g., John 6:35 clarifies the “food” theme). • Move from curiosity to obedience – John 7:17 “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching.” – Act on what you already know; light obeyed brings more light. • Cultivate a spiritual appetite – Matthew 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” – Fast from distractions; feast on the Word daily. • Ask honest questions, then linger for answers – Mark 4:10-11 shows Jesus explaining privately to disciples who stayed close. – Journaling helps track insights He reveals over time. • Stay humble and teachable – James 1:21 “Receive with meekness the implanted word.” – Pride blinds; humility hears. Living It Out This Week • Schedule a daily reading time; start with John 4-6 to trace the “food” theme. • Memorize John 4:34 to keep priorities straight. • Before study sessions, briefly ask the Spirit for clarity and commit to obey what you learn. • Share one insight with a friend; teaching reinforces understanding. Encouraging Assurance Luke 24:45: “Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.” The same risen Lord delights to open ours. When we seek, compare, obey, and stay hungry, confusion fades and His voice becomes clear. |
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