“When Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.”
John 13:1
Some time ago as we first began this journey through John’s Gospel, if you had asked me why I wanted to focus on this particular book, I probably would have said something about our need to know Jesus more deeply, love Him more fervently and follow Him more faithfully. And certainly that is true. And a study of John is probably one of the best places to see that happen. But if I was being completely honest, I would also have to admit that I began this study of John two years ago because I knew it would eventually lead us to John 13-17. These five chapters are the heart of John’s presentation of Jesus. Indeed, they reveal more of the heart of Christ for His people than any other portion of Scripture.
For example, the love of God is clearly an important theme throughout John’s gospel (think of John 3:16). And yet, the word “love” only shows up six times in the first twelve chapters. But it appears thirty-one times in these five chapters beginning with John 13:1 where we’re told Jesus “loved his own” (us!) “to the end,” that is, to the fullest possible extent! Beginning here, we will learn what that “fullest extent” truly is and how it changes everything for us who are so loved by Him! I truly cannot wait to begin this study together!
So with that in mind, let me invite you to make your personal study of this vital section of Scripture more than just a weekly “Sunday” experience. Why not determine to join me and others by studying each week’s passage on your own or with family and friends? Think about how the truth we confront here should shape our lives and strengthen our faith and enjoyment of Christ each day. Read ahead and think about what Christ is teaching you and what it means for how you live. Today we will look at Jn 13:1-11; Next Sunday Jn 13:12-20; Then on Sunday 1/30 it will be Jn 13:21-30; followed by Jn 13:31-38 on 2/6.
Read, Pray, Study, Apply and by Grace you will Grow in Faith!
Pastor S. Scott Lee