Author: Melodye Reeves

Sola Day 12 Soli Deo Gloria: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Soli Deo Gloria!

The Questions

1) How does verse 31 relate to the phrase “Soli Deo Gloria”?

2) Based on the context, what will be a by-product of doing “everything for the glory of God”?

3) What will be the end result of living a life that glorifies God and seeks the benefit of others?

1 Corinthians 10:31-32

“31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. 32 Give no offense to Jews or Greeks or the church of God, 33 just as I also try to please everyone in everything, not seeking my own benefit, but the benefit of many, so that they may be saved.”

Original Intent

1) How does verse 31 relate to the phrase “Soli Deo Gloria”?
A movement within Western Christianity in 16th-century Europe gave rise to what is now called the “Protestant Reformation”. The phrase Soli Deo Gloria was one of the important doctrines emphasized among the Reformers, along with the other four solas. The “Five Solas” are five Latin phrases (or mottos) that arose during this time to summarize the Reformers’ convictions about the fundamentals and essential priorities of Christianity. Through these statements, they emphasized the subtle, but not so subtle, discrepancies between themselves and the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church at the time. Breaking down this one specific phrase, we relate it to what Paul was saying here in 1 Corinthians. 1) The Latin word soli is translated into the English word “alone” or “only”, (it is the root of our English word solitary); 2) the phrase Deo Gloria means “the glory of God.” Putting this phrase together into English translates as: “to the glory of God alone.” In the Greek, the end of the verse (τι ποιεῖτε, πάντα εἰς δόξαν θεοῦ ποιεῖτε.) translates into “all things to the glory of God do.” Within the context of this passage, Paul was telling the Corinthian church the purpose of their lives was not to satisfy or glorify themselves, but to be satisfied in and to glorify God. 

2) Based on the context, what will be a by-product of doing “everything for the glory of God”?
In verse 32, Paul says in doing everything we do as unto God and for His glory (instead of ourselves), we will be aware of what is offensive to our brothers and sisters in Christ. He is not talking about offending the legalism in others. Meaning, we are intended to use our freedom in Christ to lovingly serve each other, not puff ourselves up. We know this because of what he says is other passages (Galatians 5:11-15 ). If our motive and goal is the glory of God in our lives, we will walk in the way Jesus did. Everything He said and did was for God’s glory. (John 12:27-28, John 17:1-5 ) Nothing Jesus said or did was with a hidden agenda or motive. As the Son, Christ’s oneness with God the Father was evident in His sincere devotion to bring the Father the glory He deserved. In Philippians 2 Paul tells us Jesus always brought glory to the Father and for us to have this same attitude! “Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Adopt the same attitude as that of Christ Jesus …” This is a by-product of living a life to the glory of God.

3) What will be the end result of living a life that glorifies God and seeks the benefit of others?
If we took the first part of verse 33 out of context, we might tend to accuse Paul of being a “man pleaser”. That is why it is so important for us to dig into the scriptures – verses within chapters within books. An overall look at Paul’s writing tells us he lived and preached with a single-minded passion and devotion to Christ alone. And that passion drove his mission. He tried to put into practice what he taught about Christ’s sacrificial life and death by putting the wellbeing of others first. Paul did not want any of his own attitudes or actions, even those which would be considered morally indifferent, to create barriers between himself and those he desired to see receive the gracious message of the gospel. Paul wanted the Corinthian Christians to be delivered from anything that kept them from walking fully in their salvation or from growing spiritually. (Colossians 1:24-27) In the following chapter, Paul went on to say that as long as he imitated Christ, they could use his life as an example of how to live. (11:1) Their spiritual salvation and growth was of utmost importance. That is why Paul lived fully and solely for God’s glory. (Romans 1:5)

Everyday Application

1) How does verse 31 relate to the phrase “Soli Deo Gloria”?
Pastor David Platt said, “God should be God-centered. Who else should He center around? There is nothing greater than Him, nothing more delightful than Him, nothing more glorious than Him, nothing more worthy of exaltation than Him. He is God! If He were to exalt anything or anyone else above Himself, He would not be the God worthy of all exaltation.” Soli Deo Gloria is the single reason for every one of the other solas. (Five Solas – TGC Course ) Only by the grace of God do we put our in faith in the Christ who is revealed in the Scriptures and Who is our only hope of eternal salvation. So, whatever we say or think or do, in all of life, we filter it through the glory of God. As our words and thoughts and actions are set in light of His glory, we are able to proceed in freedom. Then we give Him even more glory for the grace we have received to desire to live that way. (Titus 2:11-14 )

2) Based on the context, what will be a by-product of doing “everything for the glory of God”?
Using himself as an example, Paul refers to the characteristics and teachings that were known to the Corinthians. They knew of Paul’s life and the gospel he preached. (Acts 18:8) His lifelong pursuit was to glorify Christ in all things. Paul was not afraid to proclaim the exclusivity of Christ by which we must be saved, and for that he suffered greatly. (Acts 26:19-23) But here, he was cautious not to alarm the prejudices of the Corinthians who were hearing his message. With the sole purpose of bringing glory to God, Paul saw no reason to needlessly provoke those who might oppose his message. (1 Corinthians 9:19-23) We should all practice such living, to the glory and fame of God.  As followers of Jesus, we appeal to those around us, without pretense or self-promotion, by our own example of faithful living. By living consistently for the glory of God, we long for others to be moved toward the gospel because of our lives of self-denial and holiness, by the way we walk and talk, and by our genuine love for them.

3) What will be the end result of living a life that glorifies God and seeks the benefit of others?
Soli Deo Gloria has everything to do with our salvation in Christ. When the Reformers boldly proclaimed that our salvation was “to the glory of God alone,” they highlighted the grace of God. When we share the gospel of grace, that our salvation is not based on our works (Ephesians 2:4-9), we are declaring the glory of the Lord “so that no one can boast”.  Living a life that glorifies God preaches the gospel with actions as we confess it with words. When we point to God alone as worthy of worship, we will denounce all human pride and boasting and will live our lives for the sake of others’ salvation.
“God has saved us for His glory among the nations, so let us live for God’s glory among the nations. The spread of God’s global glory is not just for missionaries, and it’s not just another program in the church. Global mission is the purpose of your life. Everything you have been given in your life – your breath, your salvation, your family, your gifts, your resources, your position – everything you have, you’ve been given for this reason: the spread of God’s global glory.” (Pastor David Platt)

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Soli Deo Gloria!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Sola Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Neighbor Day 2 The Neighbor Kids: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out The Neighbor Kids!

The Questions

1) What was the expert in the law possibly attempting to accomplish with his question?

2) Did Jesus answer the question, “What must we do to inherit eternal life”?

3) How does Jesus interpret for them what was written in the Law?

4) What proves we are a genuine neighbor (the Jesus kind) to those around us?

Luke 10:25-37

25 Then an expert in the law stood up to test him, saying, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 “What is written in the law?” he asked him. “How do you read it?” 27 He answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,” and “your neighbor as yourself.” 28 “You’ve answered correctly,” he told him. “Do this and you will live.” 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30 Jesus took up the question and said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him, beat him up, and fled, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down that road. When he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 In the same way, a Levite, when he arrived at the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan on his journey came up to him, and when he saw the man, he had compassion. 34 He went over to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on olive oil and wine. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him. When I come back I’ll reimburse you for whatever extra you spend.’ 36 “Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” 37 “The one who showed mercy to him,” he said. Then Jesus told him, “Go and do the same.”

Original Intent

1) What was the “expert in the law” possibly attempting to accomplish with his question?
The “expert in the law” was not a court lawyer like we think of in the western culture of our present day. This was one who would have been considered an authority in the interpretation of the Jewish Mosaic and rabbinical law. In keeping with the traditional sign of respect, the learner stood and outwardly demonstrated a considerate posture. As a student of the law, it’s possible his question came as a serious thinker and seeker, though the phrasing of “he wanted to justify himself” gives us pause to consider his true motive. (verse 29) Though Bible scholars differ on the intention behind the question, the Greek word for “test” doesn’t necessarily imply evil intent. (enduringword.com) His question does, however, offer insight into the scribe’s belief system about securing eternal life. From the wording he uses, the inquiring man was revealing his assumption that humans must do something to gain eternal life. Unlike a payment obtained for services, receiving an inheritance does not typically require the receiver to do anything. Though the intent may not be completely cynical, the question certainly reveals his heart. Much like the wealthy ruler who approached Jesus (Matthew 19:16-22), there was a faulty assumption that doing good works was the way to receive salvation (right standing with God).

2) Did Jesus answer the question, “What must we do to inherit eternal life”?
This question seems to be a perfect setup for Jesus to discuss how salvation is not about good deeds. If I was to guess what the follow-up verse would say, I would have presumed Jesus would respond with “you don’t have to do anything!” Instead, He focused on what actions reveal about people’s motives. It’s interesting that Jesus agrees with the essence of the lawyer’s question. He said, “DO this and you will live.” Let’s pause and take that in for a moment. If we were presently in a setting where someone was teaching about salvation, we might let out a gasp at this response. Surely Jesus was not saying there was something required from them to receive eternal life. Were the local Jewish experts right about good works? The wisest teacher to ever walk the face of the earth, and the only perfect one, knew the heart of the one asking the questions. And as always, Jesus’ response exposed the deepest intentions of the scribe’s questions as well as his deeds. The man may have been an expert in the laws themselves, but sadly, he’d missed the meaning of them. And that was the answer to the question!

3) How does Jesus interpret for them what was written in the Law?
Dr. Kenneth Bailey taught in Egypt, Lebanon, Jerusalem and Cyprus. His insight into the cultural setting of this scene is extremely valuable to understand the context of Jesus’ answer and the parable He shares. “The Bible is an Eastern book. We see it through the colored glasses of Western culture. We do not understand the ingrained attitudes that illuminate a story or illustration. Christ spoke to a Middle Eastern people. What lies between the lines, what is felt and not spoken, is of deepest significance.” It was customary for Jewish children to attend school in the synagogue. Additionally, this expert had even further training in the teachings of the Old Testament. He may have thought he was going to prove his merits to Jesus by the discussion that would ensue. Jesus wanted to reveal the heart of God. The scribe thought he was going to justify himself to Jesus. Instead, Jesus told a story that would demonstrate how merciful love, not good works, is the only way to have eternal life. Jesus had not come to abolish the law the scribe was studying. He came to show that His life and death, which demonstrated loving God and others perfectly, fulfilled it completely. (Matthew 5:17-20)

4) What proves we are a genuine neighbor (the Jesus kind) to those around us?
Biblical parables were “stories that were cast alongside a truth in order to illustrate that truth.” (James Boice) There are approximately 36 parables in the Gospels. The parable in this passage is familiar to many. Even those who would not consider themselves to be adherents of Scripture use this story as an example of being a good neighbor. However, if someone wasn’t raised in a Palestinian culture, there are facets of this story we likely won’t fully grasp with a simple reading. We may not be as astonished as the first-century crowd when they heard Jesus tell it. It was unexpected in light of the answer the expert had given. In that culture, it stood directly opposed to everything the Jewish people had heard regarding their association with others. To make a Samaritan the hero of this story was nothing short of appalling. Jesus was declaring that the way to obey the words of Leviticus and Deuteronomy was to genuinely love God and also the person you least thought of as worthy. Jesus said of the Samaritan’s actions, “Go and do the same.” If this parable was a present-day meme it might read: “This is a Samaritan. The Samaritan was merciful. Be like the Samaritan.”

Everyday Application

1) What was the “expert in the law” possibly attempting to accomplish with his question?
Although we can’t be sure what the ultimate motive of the lawyer was, even if he wasn’t trying to trap Jesus into saying something that would indict Him, it doesn’t appear he was asking a question from a receptive heart. As the passage eventually exposes a man driven by his inward attitudes of superiority, this scene may reveal to us our own tendencies toward prejudice. In an effort to reassure ourselves of eternal life, it’s so tempting to question the validity of the gospel message of grace that is available to every sinner. Skepticism can cloud our thinking if we dwell on all the reasons God should withhold His mercy from someone. We may begin to believe the enemy’s foundational lie: Did God really say? (Genesis 3:1) The law expert thought he knew the answer to the question he posed. But he didn’t. If the gospel we preach doesn’t include our neighbor – whether that’s the people who live next door or our in-laws who live across the state – then we don’t understand the gospel at all.

2) Did Jesus answer the question, “What must we do to inherit eternal life”?
I can’t help but think of Jesus’ friend Martha. We don’t know the exact time frame, but just a few verses later in this same chapter, we find Jesus reminding His friend that “doing” isn’t the way to be right with God. (Luke 10:40-42) Sisters, we feel for Martha, and the expert’s question burns within us too, doesn’t it? Jesus, what must we do? I can sense Him stirring in my heart even now the words He spoke to His disciple Peter sitting by the fire after the resurrection. “He [Jesus] asked him the third time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was grieved that he asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.’ ‘Feed my sheep,’ Jesus said.” (John 21:17) If we were to ask the question the lawyer asked, we’d get the same response from Jesus He gave to him and to Peter. “Do you love Me?” It’s true we cannot earn salvation, but we who are the recipients of the mercy of God will show mercy to those around us, our neighbors because of God’s love alive within us. By this, we convey a heart changed by the gospel of grace which provides us eternal life.

3) How does Jesus interpret for them what was written in the Law?
Jesus answered the inquirer by affirming the two commandments that were stated, but just like the law expert, we try to defend ourselves by rehearsing our obedience. Jesus’ response was not just for that self-righteous lawyer. It is the answer for our own hypocrisy. Even as women of the Word, we can get so consumed with knowing and sharing all the commands in Scripture that we become guilty of breaking the most important commandments of all. Paul said in his letter to the Corinthian church that we can “understand all mysteries and all knowledge, but [if we] do not have love, we are nothing.” Humbling ourselves and loving God with everything we are will naturally lead to a life spent loving others. The law set forth in the Old Testament was merely a shadow of the reality to come through the work of Christ we read about in the New Testament. The great theologian Charles Spurgeon said, “Let it never be forgotten that what the law demands of us, the gospel really produces in us.”

4) What proves we are a genuine neighbor (the Jesus kind) to those around us?
As followers of Christ, we are to demonstrate a changed life by the way we love God wholly with our heart, soul, strength and mind. As we are being sanctified and transformed by the work of the Holy Spirit inwardly, in our attitudes and motives, we begin to outwardly prove the love we possess by generosity, humility, and kindness toward those we meet. The parable of the noble Samaritan wasn’t about good works that produced right-standing with God. The story revealed that if we really love God from a heart that acknowledges the great mercy we’ve been shown, it will be evidenced in the mercy we give to those around us. Most of us have opportunities to extend mercy every day. As moms or grandmas, as sisters or aunts, as friends or acquaintances, as members of churches and community organizations, as foreign missionaries or assistants in local shelters … we have needy people everywhere all the time. Jesus asked the law expert who was truly the good neighbor. He may have mumbled it, but he finally had the right answer: “The one who showed mercy.” Go, sisters, and do the same!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with The Neighbor Kids!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Neighbor Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Sketched VII Day 4 Following: Digging Deeper

Leave a Comment

Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Following!

The Questions

1) Jesus saw him, called him and Matthew followed. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 9)

2) Jesus eats with sinners and tax collectors. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 10)

3) What was the probable tone of Jesus’ instruction to the Pharisees in verse 13?

4) What does this passage as a whole reveal to us about the heart of Jesus?

Matthew 9:9-13

As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the toll booth, and he said to him, “Follow me,” and he got up and followed him. 10 While he was reclining at the table in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came to eat with Jesus and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 Now when he heard this, he said, “It is not those who are well who need a doctor, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Original Intent

1) Jesus saw him, called him and Matthew followed. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 9)
Chapter 9 begins by detailing the day-to-day kind of ministry Jesus had. The gospels depict Him journeying from this town to that town to heal and teach people. In His journeys, Jesus continued to reveal more and more of His character. As His reputation preceded Him in certain places, people began to look for Him. (Luke 4:42, Luke 8:40, John 12:18, Mark 3:8). It’s no surprise people wondered about Jesus, and they often came to see what all the talk was about. But the beautifully magnificent aspect is that it was Jesus who saw them. He was constantly aware of those around Him. When friends brought a paralytic to Him, verse 2 says “Jesus saw their faith”. The gospel writers often included this phrase (“Jesus saw”) when telling the stories about Him. The apostle John especially noticed this about Jesus. (John 1:38, 47-50, 5:6, 6:5, 9:1, 11:33, 19:26) In verse 9, the reader likely focuses on the end of the verse, which is our emphasis in this study today. Matthew began to follow Jesus immediately. But the significance here lies in what the context reveals about the One he followed. God incarnate, the Lord Jesus Christ, saw a tax collector named Matthew. Then He called Matthew to follow Him.

2) Jesus eats with sinners and tax collectors. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 10)
Verse 9 flows into verse 10 in this passage: “As Jesus went …” moves right into “while He was reclining.” In the present day, we might say “Jesus was always on mission.” Although the gospels tell us how Jesus purposely traveled from one place to another, He also ministered as He went. When we read passages like this, too often we move so quickly from verse to verse we miss the beauty of Jesus’ ministry. Apparently, after Matthew began to follow Him, Jesus immediately took the opportunity to call others to Himself by means of a dinner party that eventually included some tax-collector friends of Matthew. With this action, Jesus presented a living picture of the purpose of His coming. We know this because in verse 13 Jesus Himself tells us why He came to earth. Jesus said a very similar thing to another tax collector on another occasion in Luke 19:1-10. The teachers of the day struggled with what Jesus was doing, who He dined with, and who He healed. Sometimes we may also find Jesus’ teaching hard to understand or hard to obey.  But this passage could not be clearer. Jesus came for this: to call sinners to follow Him.

3) What was the probable tone of Jesus’ instruction to the Pharisees in verse 13?
From the context, this doesn’t appear to be a light-hearted scenario. Jesus was not light-heartedly directing His disciples and these teachers to do a Google search! Jesus was using a quote from Hosea 6:6 to reveal their hearts. Bible commentator Bob Utley tells us Jesus was likely using an idiom that the rabbis used to tell their students to study a particular issue. (bible.org) In this way, Jesus was making Himself the teacher, and the Pharisees His students. No doubt this angered them. Spurgeon said, “This would be distasteful to men who thought they knew everything already.” (studylight.org) Not only that, Jesus was speaking on behalf of Jehovah God. The Pharisees had asked the disciples why Jesus was eating with such “common folk.” In response, Jesus quoted Scripture as if it spoke of Himself. Jesus said, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice.” Quoting from Hosea 6:6, Jesus was declaring Himself as the Lord who deserved their sincere worship. In one impactful statement, Jesus was exposing their ignorance and their arrogance while also indicating what kind of followers He was seeking.

4) What does this passage as a whole reveal to us about the heart of Jesus?
Jesus called unlikely people to be His followers. Using an example they would all comprehend, Jesus spoke of those who were in need of help.  It is sick people who need physicians. The Pharisees were expecting a Messiah who would reign as a king and they believed themselves to be worthy of honor with Him when that leader appeared. Jesus consistently debunked their mentality. (Luke 18:9-14) Jesus saw Matthew sitting at a toll booth and invited him to follow. Jesus ate with the tax collector’s friends who were societal outcasts, and He invited them to follow. D. A. Carson says these “sinners may include common folk who did not share all the scruples of the Pharisees.” And this indicated the very heart of Jesus. The reason Jesus came was to demonstrate His love for the weak and wounded. (Romans 5:6-11) The call to follow Him is an invitation to sit at Christ’s table even though we don’t deserve it. Jesus shattered traditional norms and criticized the Pharisees’ hypocrisy. He ate with sinners because they recognized their need. The Pharisees, on the other hand, disregarded people who didn’t measure up to their insincere righteousness.

Everyday Application

1) Jesus saw him, called him and Matthew followed. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 9)
The invitation to follow Jesus is overwhelming. To think God came to earth wrapped in humanity and called people to join Him in His mission, “I scarce can take it in.” (How Great Thou Art) That the Creator would graciously call humanity to Himself is such a glorious thought, but when we take that first step toward Him and with Him, we realize that it comes at a cost. Jesus’ example demonstrates for us what following Him looks like. GT partner Audra Darville said, “Living on mission doesn’t necessarily mean being called to a specific place, job, or people. Rather, it’s about being ready and able to testify of who God is wherever you go and whoever you’re with.” Jesus saw the people everywhere He went. He called them to believe His words, to recognize their need for Him, to wholeheartedly follow Him and invite others to do the same. As soon as Matthew began to follow Jesus, he invited his tax-collector friends to meet the Christ. When Jesus’ enemies called Him a “friend of sinners,” they were not complimenting Him. They were insulting Him. (Matthew 11:19) When we follow Jesus, we can expect the same. (Matthew 5:10-12)

2) Jesus eats with sinners and tax collectors. What is so significant about how this happened? (verse 10)
In the days of which the New Testament gospels speak, Jewish rabbis and other spiritual teachers were viewed favorably within the traditional Jewish society. Most people looked to the Pharisees as their spiritual guides. Due to their strict adherents to the Law and preservation of traditions important to the Jews, they were held in high esteem within that community. Their opinion of “tax collectors and sinners” was unified and common. They would never have publicly socialized with tax collectors due to their unchecked dishonesty and greed. But Jesus! He saw Matthew and invited him along as a friend. The reality that Jesus ate with “these kinds of people” shows that He saw beyond traditions and cultural boundaries to people’s need. Following Jesus is a call to join Him in seeing others like He does.

3) What was the probable tone of Jesus’ instruction to the Pharisees in verse 13?
Jesus called people to follow Him. He would become their servant-leader. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take up My yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-20) When we are connected to Jesus, even the most challenging tasks become less of a burden. Situations that would ordinarily make us uncomfortable are viewed in the light of Jesus’ call to us. Being “yoked” together with Jesus adds a new perspective to our following Him as we recognize His strength and peace that is offered to us. The Pharisees did not fully comprehend the mercy of God. In fact, it was something the Israelites had always had a difficult time understanding. The prophets tried, but the people refused to listen. Jesus wanted His followers to understand what they were committing to by following Him. The call to follow Him might include wearisome and troubling circumstances, but partnering with Jesus is a journey of receiving mercy and proclaiming mercy.

4) What does this passage as a whole reveal to us about the heart of Jesus?
Jesus came to invite sinners like us to follow Him. “For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.am For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. (John 3:16-17). At creation, God saw the people He had made and said, “It is very good.” (Genesis 1:31) Instead of faithfully loving God, we broke the beautiful relationship we had with God through Adam & Eve. (Hosea was preaching this in his message of mercy Hosea 6:7) Jesus saw the people He passed along His journey! He had compassion on them and desired to meet their needs, especially their deepest need. I’m so thankful Jesus didn’t let social status or cultural norms dictate His invitation to people. Following Him will take us on a journey of faith,  but many outcasts have realized and received His invitation of mercy. Now we invite others to join us!
I have decided to follow Jesus.
No turning back.
No turning back.

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Following!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Sketched VII Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Questions Day 12 Why Pray?: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Why Pray?!

The Questions

1) What does the Lord declare about Himself (through the prophet) in verse 2?

2) What does the Lord want the prophet and all the hearers to do?

3) What are possibly the “great and incomprehensible things” of which the Lord through the prophet, speaks?

Jeremiah 33:2-3

2 The Lord who made the earth, the Lord who forms it to establish it, the Lord is His name, says this: 3 Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and incomprehensible things you do not know.’”

Original Intent

1) What does the Lord declare about Himself (through the prophet) in verse 2?
In verse 1 of the chapter, we discover a link between the previous chapter and this one. “The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah a second time.” There is no indication of how much time passed from the first confrontation Jeremiah had with Lord about the matters discussed here, though it appears the situation has deteriorated since the Lord first appeared to the prophet. (Jeremiah 32:1) The people of Israel had grown weary of Jeremiah’s constant message of repentance, so they had him put in prison. With the people ignoring his message, Jeremiah possibly felt forgotten of God. (Jeremiah 20:7-9), but in verse 2, God declares Himself to Jeremiah by reminding the discouraged prophet just WHO was speaking. Though different Bible scholars have variations on the translation of verse 2 (is God saying this about Himself, or is the prophet saying it about God?), what is evident is what is being communicated, is indeed about the Lord. He is the One who created the earth, and the One who sustains the earth; THIS God is HE who speaks to Jeremiah. It is the same LORD (Exodus 3:13-15) who led Moses and the same One whom the Psalmist praises. (Psalm 148)

2) What does the Lord want the prophet and all the hearers to do?
Instructions can be hard to understand, making a task difficult to complete. Often, it wasn’t clear to the people what the Lord was asking them to do. Sometimes it was their own obstinacy that blinded them. (Hosea 4) Sometimes, obedience to the Lord was a foreign concept to them within their culture or experience (Job 10). But in verse 3, the word of the Lord to Jeremiah was straightforward: “Call to Me.” The Creator of the universe extended His ear to the prophet and His people, and He commanded them to pray. Previously, Jeremiah had been told not to pray for the people due to their unrepentant hearts. (Jeremiah 14:10-12) Here, God tells the prophet He will hear their call to Him. “The Hebrew word besuroth … is normally used to describe cities or walls as ‘inaccessible.’ All the lexicons, however, agree in seeing it used here metaphorically of ‘mysterious’ things that Jeremiah could not know apart from the Lord’s revelation.” Most commentators believe that in this context “in which the fortifications of Jerusalem are about to fall to the Babylonians, the fortified things in God’s secret counsel fall through answer to prayer.” (Netbible.org)

3) What are possibly the “great and incomprehensible things” of which the Lord through the prophet, speaks?
The phrase “great and incomprehensible things” is reminiscent of Jeremiah’s declaration about the Lord in the previous chapter, “Nothing is too difficult for You.”(Jeremiah 32:17) God was summoning Jeremiah and the people to Himself. The Creator was offering them a vision into the mysteries of the One who made them. If they would call, His answer would be “beyond the normal reach of human knowledge.” (Harrison, EnduringWord.com) The context of verse 3 is interesting. God has offered the people exciting promises of answered prayers and a great future. In the following verses He speaks of anger, evil, and destruction. (Jeremiah 33:4-5) God wants to answer His people, but He must also deal with their rebellion and sin. Thankfully, the good news returns in verses 6 and following verses. (Jeremiah 33:6-16) Verses 14-16 give us a glimpse of the incomprehensible that is to come, “Look, the days are coming—this is the Lord’s declaration—when I will fulfill the good promise that I have spoken concerning the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a Righteous Branch to sprout up for David, and he will administer justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will dwell securely, and this is what she will be named: The Lord Is Our Righteousness.” What’s coming? God Himself! Jesus Christ!

Everyday Application

1) What does the Lord declare about Himself (through the prophet) in verse 2?
Jeremiah was in prison when the Lord appeared to him this second time. Ironically, he’s in prison because he had told the people what God had said the first time. Now God appears again and reminds the prophet who He is and what He will do, regardless of how circumstances appear to Jeremiah. Reminiscent of Joseph’s life, the Lord was with the prophet in prison. (Genesis 39) I love the Bible stories we read from the “zoomed out” perspective. Circumstances would have indicated God had abandon Jeremiah, but the Lord Himself declares precisely Who He is and invites His people to come and pray as He listens intently. When we are discouraged, the Lord who created us and sustains us beckons us to Himself because He genuinely cares for us. (1 Peter 5:6-10) In our despair, the enemy wants us to lose hope. In striking contrast, God wants us to call out to Him because He is good. With the psalmist, let’s confess confidently (even if our heart is shaky), “Lord, You are my shepherd; I have what I need. Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff ​— ​they comfort me … all the days of my life. Amen.” (Psalm 23)

2) What does the Lord want the prophet and all the hearers to do?
God is always ready to respond to our cries for help, but humility will lead the way if we sincerely recognize our need. When we approach God as the Source of everything we need, we’ll do so with more receptive and hopeful hearts, knowing He will answer us, even if it’s not the answer we want. It’s important to declare Who God is when we call on Him. “Our Father in heaven, Your name be honored as holy.” (Mt 6:9) It is then we are able to see answers that were obstructed before. God promises us that prayer is not in vain, even if we do not receive exactly what we asked for (Mt 6:5-8, Romans 8:24-28). Prayer is so much more than getting from God, although that’s part of it. (Matthew 7:7-11) Prayer is getting God Himself: Call to ME and I will answer.” That perspective makes all the difference!

3) What are possibly the “great and incomprehensible things” of which the Lord through the prophet, speaks?
Jeremiah 33:3 is often quoted as a life verse for many who follow Christ. Of course, what sincere believer doesn’t want God to show us “great and incomprehensible things”?! When interpreting Scripture, we must keep in mind the distinction between a passage’s interpretation and its application. One meaning, but many good applications (not all applications are good as they don’t hold true to the contextual meaning!). God had made long-term promises to His people even though they had failed to trust the Lord’s faithful character. In this chapter, God emphasizes His nature which ensures the reliability of His statements. God is first and foremost telling Jeremiah to communicate to the people that He is Yahweh (Exodus 3:15) What an amazing thought! The LORD is near and is willing to hear His people after all their rebellion. Commentator Adam Clarke is so rich in helping us apply this beautiful verse: “Don’t miss the principle, Beloved – You may be in a prison, literal or figurative, but no ‘bars’ can bar the Almighty from speaking words to you … And in this chapter, while they begin with judgment, the emphasis is on restoration and reassurance which is what the Father wants to speak to you.” (PreceptAustin.org)
Our great & incomprehensible God is also knowable through Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:3-4) Call out to Him in prayer, friends.

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Why Pray?!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Questions Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Shielded Day 4 Unmasking The Real Enemy: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Unmasking The Real Enemy!

The Questions

1) Why does the author call the readers to humble themselves (verse 6)?

2) What does it mean that the devil is “prowling around”?

3) How are we to encourage our hearts to resist sin and remain faithful amid suffering and evil?

1 Peter 5:6-9

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you at the proper time, 7 casting all your cares on him, because he cares about you. 8 Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. 9 Resist him, firm in the faith, knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.

Original Intent

1) Why does the author call the readers to humble themselves (verse 6)?
The apostle Peter was writing to the Jewish people dispersed throughout Gentile lands. (1 Peter 1:1) In chapter 5 we find the central reason Peter had for writing the letter. In verse 12 he says he wrote, “in order to encourage you and to testify that this is the true grace of God.” The exhortation he gives in verse 12 is a repeated thought from verse 9: “Stand firm” in it, which is the grace of God. As Bible students, we note the “therefore” in verse 6 and should be careful to connect what is being said before this verse and connect it correctly to this verse. We humble ourselves “because God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (verse 5)  By recognizing God’s sovereignty in our salvation and our sanctification (the process being made holy), we understand that everything we have is because of God’s grace, which is unmerited favor. Peter had learned it was better to humble himself before God than to be humbled by God. (Matthew 26:31-35, 69-74) There will be a day of reward. Maybe in this life, but definitely in the next. (James 4:6-10, James 1:9-12)

2) What does it mean that the devil is “prowling around”?
The prophet Isaiah revealed that Satan, who is the devil, was created by God, but turned against His authority (Isaiah 14:12-15) in search of his own. The New Testament tells us that at the present time, Satan leads the kingdom of evil (Matthew 25:41). His power exists not only in the spiritual realm (Hell), but he’s also been allowed by God to roam the earth and wreak havoc until the appointed day when God will destroy him and his demons forever. (Hebrews 2:14-15, Revelation 20:7-9) Until that happens, Peter warned the believers the devil was not to be underestimated. The devil’s power is limited, but he is attempting to steal, kill and destroy as many people as he can. (John 10:10) Even though he’s described as a lion, his ways are often subtle and cunning. In John 10, Jesus described Himself in comparison to the religious leaders. Jesus, the Good Shepherd came to bring life. The enemy of life uses even those who claim to be of God to carry people away from the grace of God by telling them their morality (their works) can save them.

3) How are we to encourage our hearts to resist sin and remain faithful amid suffering and evil?
We are challenged through Peter’s letter to resist the enemy’s schemes and stand firm in our faith because we have a family of Christians around the world who are experiencing hardship, temptation, and trials like we are. Peter reminded the believers that though it may not seem like it, there were many who followed God faithfully and endured suffering. In Hebrews 12:1, the author writes something similar to Peter as he addressed the oppressed believers, reminding them of those who’d gone before them in faith, “Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us.” Paul told the Corinthians it was important to remain humble, resist temptation, and remember it wasn’t uncommon to face hardship as a believer. (1 Corinthians 10:12-13) We also do this by meeting together with one another and encouraging one another in obedience and faithfulness. (Hebrews 10:19-25)

Everyday Application

1) Why does the author call the readers to humble themselves (verse 6)?
One of my favorite passage of Scripture is found in Paul’s letter to the Philippians. In chapter 2, we learn about the humility of the perfect Son of God, who “emptied Himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. And when He had come as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross.” Paul goes on to say that the humble Christ was exalted by God to the highest place. (Philippians 2:9-11) Humbling ourselves is not simply thinking less of ourselves. Rather, it’s moment by moment thinking of ourselves less and thinking of God most. Often, God opens doors to us as a reward of our humble obedience to Him and to following His call in our lives. We may even find ourselves in exalted positions with platforms and big opportunities to speak for Him. Along with this, we need to prepare ourselves that this will possibly lead to and demand much more humility as we depend on His grace to sustain us as serve Him.

2) What does it mean that the devil is “prowling around”?
God has granted Satan some power in this world, though he is most certainly on God’s leash.  In fact, his power does not control the grave even now. Even if Satan thought he had won when Judas betrayed Jesus, it was God who was in control to bring life to all of us! John Piper said, “God uses demons to undo the design of the father of demons. God uses Satan to defeat the purposes of Satan. The death of Jesus disarmed Satan in his warfare against God’s people. It stripped him of his one damning weapon: unforgiven sin. When Satan entered Judas, he signed his own death warrant with the blood of Jesus.” (Hebrews 2:14-16) The devil is prowling, yes. The devil has some power, yes. BUT death has NO power for the soul surrendered to Jesus! That’s why we can approach the throne of grace boldly (Hebrews 4:14-16) and cast all of our cares on God.

3) How are we to encourage our hearts to resist sin and remain faithful amid suffering and evil?
We can cheerfully cease from endorsing ourselves because we have the assurance from God that He will exalt us, when the time is right. I can’t think of a better way to remind ourselves that Satan’s days are short-lived than the testimony of faithful saints who have endured in the fight against the devil’s schemes. Several years ago, the words to this well-known hymn was slightly modernized by Brian Doerksen who had studied the history and possible meaning in the day it was written. I believe it communicates well what Luther was proclaiming:

A mighty fortress is our God, a stronghold never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe conspires to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and armed with bitter hate,
On earth is not his equal.

If we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing,
unless God’s man is on our side –  the man of God’s own choosing.
You ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
The Lord of Hosts, His name, from age to age the same,
And He must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled should threaten to undo us,
we will not fear, for God has willed His truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim, we tremble not for him;
his rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure;
God’s Word shall overthrow him.

That Word above all earthly powers is evermore abiding.
The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Jesus with us siding.
Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also;
the body they may kill, God’s truth is with us still
His kingdom is forever.

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Unmasking The Real Enemy!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Shielded Week One!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Treasure Day 9 The Gift Of Laboring: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out The Gift Of Laboring!

The Questions

1) What was the burden that wearied the people to whom Jesus was speaking? (verse 28)

2) What does it mean when Jesus says to “take up my yoke” (verse 29)?

3) In what way is the yoke of Jesus easy and how does He make a burden light (verse 30)?

Matthew 11:28-30

28 “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take up my yoke and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Original Intent

1) What was the burden that wearied the people to whom Jesus was speaking? (verse 28)
When you study the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John), you’ll learn that verses 28-30 are distinct to Matthew’s gospel alone. Though a simple reading of Chapter 11 may cause an observer to feel it is disjointed, there is a connection we find when we dig into Jesus’ repeated call to the weary. In these three verses, Jesus invites burdened people to come to Him for relief from what loads them down. In the context of all of Jesus’ teaching, it is quite evident He isn’t speaking of physical burdens like a backpack or an illness. Jesus wanted those who followed Him to understand He was inviting them to surrender in a much different way than the religious leaders of the day required (which was purely physical). (Matthew 23:1-7) Jesus called them to reject their own sufficiency. The burdens of heartless law-keeping were placed on them by men, not God. Matthew reveals Jesus’ heart through His words of rebuke to the cities. Jesus and John had preached repentance, had worked miracles, and had given them ample opportunities to be released from the bondage of sin, but they continued to ignore the message of hope, Instead, by rejecting Him and His freedom from the bondage of sin, they brought upon themselves judgment instead of comfort. (Matthew 11:16-20)

2) What does it mean when Jesus says to “take up my yoke” (verse 29)?
Verse 28 reveals the offer Jesus made to those listening, “Come to Me.” In verse 29, He presents to them Himself as their example of what finding rest will mean for them. Jesus had come to release them from the heavy burdens the religious leaders placed on the people. The entire ministry and message of Jesus centers around this exchange and drastic mind shift. Jesus knew the oppression they experienced was never what God intended the Law to produce. Instead, the Law was intended to be a reminder that repentance and faith was all that was essential, since no one would ever be able to keep the full law perfectly. The obedience that followed the surrender would not be burdensome because Jesus’ righteousness provided all that was necessary to release the weary soul from sin and death. (1 John 5:1-4) The good news of Jesus was His promise that no would need to earn their way into heaven! Instead, all one must do is come toward Jesus and exchange the burden of impossible perfection for His true goodness. (1 Peter 2:24)

3) In what way is the yoke of Jesus easy and how does He make a burden light (verse 30)?
Earlier in chapter 11 we read John the Baptist (Luke 3) was in prison. Considering the inquiry, it appears John’s faith in Jesus had been met with doubt. Though we don’t know for sure his motivation, the message from John’s disciples required Jesus to assure John that He was indeed the Messiah of whom John had preached. (John 3:28-30) Jesus instructed John’s friends to tell him of what they had observed. Was it possible John’s weariness of waiting had caused him to doubt? Maybe. Even so, Jesus affirmed John (Matthew 11:11) and Himself, rebuking the crowds for their unrepentant hearts. (Matthew 11:19-20,  25-27) Under the inspiration of God’s Spirit, Matthew records John’s inquiry and Jesus’ response. Even John the Baptist, the great forerunner of Jesus, (or his disciples), needed to be reminded why Jesus came and assured He was exactly who He claimed to be. It wasn’t to overthrow an earthly kingdom built by human hands. He came to replace the burdensome system by surrendering His own life so ours would be death-penalty free. (2 Corinthians 5:17-21)

Everyday Application

1) What was the burden that wearied the people to whom Jesus was speaking? (verse 28)
The burden that afflicted the people in Jesus’ day is the same one that we must shake off from ourselves today in our own time. It’s the burden of our own efforts in our salvation and spiritual growth. We cannot be “good enough” to gain favor from God or make Him smile on us. Jesus has provided the answer, the only answer, for us when He said, “abide in Me” (John 15:9). The only effort we must make is to move toward His extended hand and heart, openly, willingly, humbly receiving His lavish offer of grace and forgiveness. Once we have come to Jesus, then we rest. The burden of perfection is too heavy, too demanding, and will never be lifted by our efforts. That’s why faith is essential. We must trust Christ at His work on our behalf, believing His word as true. Faith is resting in what Jesus has told us about Himself, then believing and abiding in that truth. The yoke of Jesus is a hopeful assurance of life abundant and everlasting as we learn to live in the pattern of love and surrender He has modeled for us. Only here will we finally find rest for our souls!

2) What does it mean when Jesus says to “take up my yoke” (verse 29)?
The author of Hebrews tells us to “run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eye on Jesus, the Source and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2) This is the light yoke Jesus calls us to take up. There is not another yoke in existence that gives us rest for our souls. “Oh soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see. There’s light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and free! Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” (Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus) Where are you working hard to be good enough for God and earn His favor? Where are you relying on your own strength to be a better Christian, wife, friend, mother, or daughter? Only Jesus is your strength and sustenance. Only by His Spirit can be made like Him! Surrender to Him!

3) In what way is the yoke of Jesus easy and how does He make a burden light (verse 30)?
The yoke of Jesus is easy because He carried the burden that was meant for us to carry; and He was the only one who could carry it all the way to the end perfectly without a single flaw. We are the recipients of His gracious and perfect obedience to the Father’s plan for our redemption because of His unfathomable love for us. You could say our obedience to Jesus is “easy like Sunday morning.” It’s resurrection power & peace. Those of us who have put our faith in Christ’s finished work on the cross find ourselves being made into His likeness by the Spirit’s work daily in our lives. What sweet rest we have in Jesus, through the gift of grace from the Father and the help and comfort of the Spirit. We aren’t to bear the burdens of a life of law-keeping, checkboxes to mark off, and “being good enough” in order to make ourselves right with God. We are instead worshippers, resting in the obedience of Christ and His finished work on the cross, which He did on our behalf that we may, finally, be truly free! (Hebrews 10:8-14)

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with The Gift Of Laboring!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Treasure Week Two!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
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Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Here Day 12 Orient Kings: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Orient Kings!

The Questions

1) Who were the wise men from the east who arrived in Jerusalem? (verse 1)

2) What had they possibly studied to lead them to believe the baby was worthy of their worship? (verses 2 and 11)

3) What do we know about the dream the men had and how does it shape this passage?

Matthew 2:1-12

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of King Herod, wise men from the east arrived in Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was deeply disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 So he assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people and asked them where the Christ would be born. 5 “In Bethlehem of Judea,” they told him, “because this is what was written by the prophet: 6 And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah: Because out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.” 7 Then Herod secretly summoned the wise men and asked them the exact time the star appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you find him, report back to me so that I too can go and worship him.” 9 After hearing the king, they went on their way. And there it was—the star they had seen at its rising. It led them until it came and stopped above the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 Entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and falling to their knees, they worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another route.

Original Intent

1) Who were the wise men from the east who arrived in Jerusalem? (verse 1)
In reading this passage of Scripture, we discover three gifts were brought to the Child of Mary (verse 11). Many have assumed, and therefore have depicted, there were three wise men who came to visit the Christ child based on the number of gifts specifically recorded. However, the Bible does not ever say this. It is possible there were several more magi and gifts. Tradition began to adjust the narrative, and possibly by the 3rd century people began referring to the men as kings, which would have prophetically fulfilled the words of the psalmist (Psalm 72:8-11). Several centuries later, others would add specific names to the story. (Britannica.com) But in this inspired gospel, Matthew tells us very little about these men. He doesn’t provide names, nor does he give us specific places, other than they arrived in Jerusalem from the east after following “His star.” According to other Bible writers, the magi (also, wise men) were those who practiced magical arts (in Acts 8) or who were Babylonian priest-sages who studied the universe through astronomy and astrology (as seen in the Old Testament book of Daniel). Most Bible scholars believe these men traveled 800 to 900 miles to see this One who was born because they were familiar with the writings of the prophet Daniel (Daniel 9:24-27) and were seekers of the one true God.

2) What had they possibly studied to lead them to believe the baby was worthy of their worship? (verses 2 and 11)
There are Bible scholars who believe the ancestors of these men had possibly been instructed by the prophet Daniel about the coming Messiah. Daniel was the chief of the magi in Nebuchadnezzar’s court. (Daniel 1:17-21 )It is very possible his influence was significant within the group of the court sages and many came to believe in the God of Daniel because of his testimony hundreds of years before Christ was born.  Even so, these wise men had a limited understanding of the prophecies about Jesus as their knowledge had led them to Jerusalem, whereas Micah’s prophecy foretold of Bethlehem. It isn’t surprising the magi ended up in the capital city looking for a king, as it made reasonable sense. Nor would it be uncommon for them to approach King Herod to inquire about the newborn king. Little did they know that Herod had no interest in another potential king or that he would stop at nothing to ensure the child’s destruction. These wise men left Herod’s presence believing he also wanted to find the king in order to pay him homage. Once they found the child, their posture and gifts indicated their belief that they had indeed found the One they were seeking: they bowed, they worshipped, and they presented extravagant and significant gifts.

3) What do we know about the dream the men had and how does it shape this passage? (verse 12)
These men had no reason to doubt King Herod’s sincerity until the disturbing dream. It was so dramatic and impressive on their hearts they chose not to return to Herod. Apparently, the scribes who appeared in Herod’s court knew the Scriptures well enough they could recite it. Unfortunately, what they knew did not translate into belief. None of them had made their way to the place where their prophesied king had been born. Herod clearly must have feared that the prophesies could be true because he ordered the murder of all the boys near the age of the promised king (Matthew 2:16-17).  Interestingly, this event was part of God’s unfolding plan as He knew in advance of Herod’s decision and how it would impact young Jesus. God even spoke of all these things through the prophets. Though Jesus would be born in Bethlehem, Matthew tells us His journey through Egypt would fulfill the prophecy of Hosea (Matthew 2:15, Hosea 11:1) Had the wise men not heeded the warning regarding Herod, God would have used other means to fulfill His purposed plan for Joseph, Mary and Jesus.

Everyday Application

1) Who were the wise men from the east who arrived in Jerusalem? (verse 1)
Through the ages, God has used inconspicuous people like these wise men. His grace is not bound by certain places or families or lineage. The Spirit of God can lead people to Christ in ways we could not imagine or determine. Like these men of the east, some people may be born in dark or obscure places of the world, but by God’s prompting and leading, they are drawn to seek after Christ. As they move toward Him, our wonderful Father works behind the scenes to bring them into the presence of Jesus through the gospel message. Once there, God moves in their hearts and they recognize they have found Who they had always been looking for. So great is the love of the Father as He draws people to Himself! Be open and ready to share Jesus with anyone at any time as the Spirit leads, you may never know the impact He has designed for your obedient sharing!

2) What had they possibly studied to lead them to believe the baby was worthy of their worship? (verses 2 and 11)
Shouldn’t it have been the scribes and the Pharisees running first to Bethlehem to look for the Christ child? Yes! Instead, it was some wandering shepherds who came to the place of the newborn king after the angels announced His birth.  Now, months later, several unknown sages traveled from hundreds of miles away to worship the One they had heard and read about. This passage reveals how knowledge of Jesus must lead to seeking of Jesus. Herod had a fear of the possible truth he’d heard about this newborn Child. The scribes quoted the verses that prophesied of the coming King. But only the wise men and shepherds sought to come near to Him. It was then they knew in their hearts they were near God Himself. Those of us who have seen the reflection of Christ’s light shining like that star in the night could sing with the wise men: “I have seen the Light shining in the darkness, bursting through the shadows, delivering the dawn. I have seen the Light whose holy name is Jesus, His kingdom is forever; He reigns on Heaven’s throne!” (Music & Lyrics by Robert Sterling & Chris Machen)

3) What do we know about the dream the men had and how does it shape this passage? (verse 12)
The wise men had gone to great lengths and traveled many miles to find Jesus. They had probably sacrificed a great deal of their lives to get to Him. Yet, upon meeting Him, they were not proud, rather they were humbled. Instead of running back to Herod with the news that they were the wise ones who had discovered the newborn King, they bowed to Jesus. They offered Christ amazing gifts, then they quietly departed the area and never returned to Herod, and likely never saw Jesus again either. These wise men had witnessed God in ways they had not expected and it changed the course of their lives. When we come face to face with Jesus, it humbles us. It also changes the trajectory of our lives.
JC Ryle said of these men, “The conduct of the wise men is a striking example of faith. They believed in Christ when they had never seen Him. They believed in Him when the Scribes and Pharisees were unbelieving. They believed in Him when they saw Him a little infant on Mary’s knee. And they worshiped Him as a king.” We would be wise to do the same!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Orient Kings!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Here Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Worship VI Day 9 New Wine: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out New Wine!

The Questions

1) Who were all together in one place (verse 1)?

2) What did those present hear and see?

3) What did those present receive and do?

Acts 2:1-4

When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them.

Original Intent

1) Who were all together in one place (verse 1)?
The day had arrived for the Jewish feast of Pentecost. In studying the Old Testament, we discover the significance of this day for the Jews. “Pentecost” is the Greek name for the festival known as the Feast of Weeks. It was a traditional day in their annual spring feast when the Jews offered their first-fruits of the wheat harvest to God. (Exodus 34:21-22) Ten days before Pentecost, Jesus had reiterated His prediction of the coming Holy Spirit. (Acts 1:5) John the Baptist had also foretold of this day. (Matthew 3:5) The only biblical reference to the actual events of Pentecost is here in Acts 2. On this day, much like they were on the evening of the Last Supper, the disciples were gathered in one place. It’s likely these are the believers Luke (the author of Acts) mentioned earlier in 1:15. Although scholars aren’t certain of the location, many believe it was the upper room of the house already mentioned in the book. (Acts 1:12-15)

2) What did those present hear and see?
In verses 2-3 we read how these believers heard a sound and saw a vision. The passage doesn’t specifically say it was actual wind, nor does it say they saw actual fire. We know that because of the use of the word “like.” What we do know for sure is Luke wanted to communicate that the “violent” noise could be heard by everyone there, because he says it “filled the whole house”. Amid this house-shattering noise, these believers also received a visual. The text indicates the apparent fire came in one piece and then separated into individual flames. The Greek word diamerizomenai indicates the fire was seen dividing itself. (net.bible.org) These flames of fire were obviously not normal fire because no one was burned or scorched as it “rested” on them. Commentator Bob Utley says, “Luke is using an analogy to try to express a unique occurrence of a physical manifestation of the Spirit.” The amazing thing is there “was no distinction made between Apostles or disciples; men or women.” (bible.org) It rested on them ALL.

3) What did those present receive and do?
Verse 4 says all those in that place were “filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” Being “filled with the Spirit” was a wonder that had been experienced by people of faith at various times in the Old Testament. (Exodus 35:30-34, Numbers 11:26-29, 1 Samuel 10:6-10) Here, Luke uses “filling” to express that the believers received the Holy Spirit’s presence and enablement. (“A Theology of Luke-Acts,” Darrell L. Bock). On this day, the believers assembled in this place were unified and expectant. The previous chapter tells us “they all were continually united in prayer.” (Acts 1:14) As the Spirit of God filled their hearts, speaking in tongues was the outward evidence that God had done something inwardly. It is clear from the context of this passage, that these “tongues” were an indication of their ability to speak in another language which was previously unknown to the one speaking. (verses 6, 8). Utley offers great insight: “Theologically, it is possible that Pentecost is the direct opposite of the tower of Babel in Genesis 10-11. As prideful, rebellious humans asserted their independence, God implemented His will by the insertion of multiple languages. Now, the nationalism which impedes humans from uniting believers has been reversed. Christian fellowship across every human boundary is the reversal of the consequences of Genesis 3.” (bible.org)

Everyday Application

1) Who were all together in one place (verse 1)?
The believers, many of whom had seen Jesus suffer and die and then be raised from the dead, were gathered in these days for prayer and encouragement. What a beautiful picture of the Church together in fellowship and worship and ultimately evangelism. (Acts 2:37-42) “It’s a shame that the term ‘Pentecostal power’ has, for many people, become more associated with “speaking in tongues” than with the harvest of world evangelization. Be sure at this point you see the main focus: it is a feast of harvest in Jerusalem, and on this very day, Jesus pours out the Spirit in extraordinary power and 3,000 people are harvested from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of God.” Peter had emphasized the importance of continuing the witness of Christ & His resurrection. Chapter 1 ends with the believers praying for a replacement for Judas in the apostolic ministry. They met together, united around the truth of the message of the resurrection. This message is the very same reason we unite and gather as believers today. (1 Corinthians 15:12-22 )

2) What did those present hear and see?
Piper says that “at times the Holy Spirit makes Himself known with visible, audible, touchable manifestations. In the Old Testament, there was the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire. At Jesus’ baptism, there was the dove. In Acts 4, the building shakes. In chapter 6, Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel. In chapter 16, there is an earthquake. At times, the Spirit stoops to give us visible, audible, touchable demonstrations of His magnificent presence and power.” Jesus told Nicodemus the Spirit moves as He pleases, working in the hearts of people. (John 3:8) We don’t know why God moves as He does in certain circumstances. Clearly, the believers in that room recognized the power of God. Signs and wonders from God will be evidenced by the worship of God, not the wonders themselves. God allowed His Spirit to be heard and seen in a unique way so those present would know it was HIM!

3) What did those present receive and do?
What a miracle! God’s Spirit had been seen and heard in such a spectacular way. When the believers began speaking in the tongues of different languages, enabled by the Spirit, a significant event was occurring.  Everyone present were witnesses to a dramatic demonstration of God’s sovereign power. Maybe the apostles remembered what Jesus had spoken to them, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” This power was given to the disciples for them to be equipped and enabled to be witnesses to the world of the death and resurrection of Christ. It is not inconsequential that people from all the nations were there. They needed to understand the amazing things the disciples were declaring in their own language! (Acts 2:6) It was a day that marked what God meant for the future of the people of the world, for all to understand His power and His willingness to save miraculously all who will believe the witness of the gospel message. “Missions is our way of saying: the joy of knowing Christ is not a private, or tribal, or national or ethnic privilege. It is for all. And … we go because we have tasted the joy of worshiping Jesus, and we want all … included.” (Let the Nations be Glad, John Piper)

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with New Wine!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Worship VI Week Two!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.

Esther Day 12 Honor And Justice: Digging Deeper

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Digging Deeper Days

Finding the original intent of Scripture and making good application to our everyday lives as we become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

Yesterday’s Journey Study connects with today’s!
Check out Honor And Justice!

The Questions

1) What did Jesus mean in verse 23 when He said, “the hour has come”?

2) What do verses 27-28 indicate about why Jesus’ soul was troubled?

3) The word “now” is used three times in verses 27-31. What is its significance in the context of the passage?

John 12:23-32

23 Jesus replied to them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24 Truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains by itself. But if it dies, it produces much fruit. 25 The one who loves his life will lose it, and the one who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me. Where I am, there my servant also will be. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. 27 “Now my soul is troubled. What should I say—Father, save me from this hour? But that is why I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” 29 The crowd standing there heard it and said it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” 30 Jesus responded, “This voice came, not for me, but for you. 31 Now is the judgment of this world. Now the ruler of this world will be cast out. 32 As for me, if I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all people to myself.” 33 He said this to indicate what kind of death he was about to die.

Original Intent

1) What did Jesus mean in verse 23 when He said, “the hour has come”?
All of the synoptic Gospels (which include Matthew, Mark & Luke) quote Jesus speaking about “the hour.” Previously in John, we read the time had “not yet come”. (John 7:6, John 7:30, John 8:20). Jesus was continually communicating the profound significance of “the hour”. By the time of his writing, John has recognized the importance of “the hour” by dedicating almost half of his Gospel to Christ’s last week. Jesus knew that everything would happen when it should, and not before (John 2:4). He was obedient to God in everything He said and did, and God was glorified as a result. (John 12:28, John 17:4) Jesus had come into the world for “this hour.” (Galatians 4:4-5). In verse 23, Jesus begins to unveil how the hour is now approaching that He has spoken of to His disciples and others (John 4:23-25). In the days following, the words Jesus spoke and the events that occurred would reveal what “hour has come” and why it was necessary. Jesus had come to reveal and glorify the Father, and to reconcile to Him those who would believe (John 13:1-7, John 16:25-33, John 17:1-5) Commentator, Leon Morris, said about these verses, “the hour has come and is staying with us. There is no going back on it.”

2) What do verses 27-28 indicate about why Jesus’ soul was troubled?
Jesus knew the time had come for Him to complete the mission to which He had been called by dying the humble death of a servant. (John 12:24-26, Philippians 2:5-8) He had told the disciples that “the hour” had come, though He had not made it clear what He meant. Though Jesus mentioned that Mary’s kind gesture earlier (of anointing Him) was in preparation of His burial, those around Him were still very unaware of the implications of His death. Commentators remind us that the Gospels are not primarily focused on a timeline of events, but are intently focused on telling us Who Jesus is and what His purpose was for coming. (bible.org) Every person eventually dies, but Jesus is the only one who was born TO die. Dressed bodily in “genuine humanity” and surrounded by those He loved, Jesus was feeling the sorrow anyone would feel. Though we should be careful not to describe Jesus’ humanity and divinity as a mixed blend forming some kind of divine and human composition. His attributes of being fully God while also fully man are united in His one Being. (The Moody Handbook of Theology) Jesus knew the Father’s will was to crush and wound Him for our healing (Isaiah 53:5-10). He loved mankind, and though His very purpose was to bring the Father glory, His humanity dreaded the painful sorrow He faced. He would demonstrate the depths of His agony later at Gethsemane. (Matthew 26:38-39)

3) The word “now” is used three times in verses 27-31. What is its significance in the context of the passage?
Jesus said, “Now my soul is troubled …” and “Now is the judgment of this world. Now the ruler of this world will be cast out.” Often, in the Scriptures we see the word “now”. Here the same Greek word is used all three times. That’s important because it’s an adverb in these verses (Greek, adverb νῦν), unlike other times when its used as a conjunction, as in Hebrews 11:1 in which it is a connecting word and not denoting time. Jesus is not simply bridging thoughts. He is declaring that soon His work on earth will be complete and that the enemy is going to be defeated through that work. Although redemption is the most significant completion of His task, Christ finished other things at the cross. (John 19:28-10) His sufferings, endured on earth as a human, were now over. The perfect obedience of the Son to the Father resulted in the completed task of defeating sin and death. (John 6:35-38, Colossians 2:14-15)

Everyday Application

1) What did Jesus mean in verse 23 when He said, “the hour has come”?
A resurrected Lazarus had given the skeptics and the critics fits! There was quite a stir about the event, and some began to follow Jesus as a result. Several times in the Gospels, Jesus was “interrupted” by someone with a need. He was always so merciful to respond, sometimes to the frustration of His disciples. Now, Jesus must look straight ahead to His task of sacrifice on the cross. And how thankful I am! Because this time, I am the recipient of His mercy. Jesus’ obedience to go all the way to cross meant my salvation. His submission to the Father led to glory for God and honor for us who partake of His mercy. What a remarkable thought! As a Christ-follower, we receive honor from the Father, which is the result of our new identity in Christ now. Because of Christ, we receive glory. And His example of giving up His life shows us that we must do the same. “I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

2) What do verses 27-28 indicate about why Jesus’ soul was troubled?
Jesus was fully human. The prospect of a coming death which included certain suffering caused a blunt revulsion within His humanity. John’s purpose for writing his book was so everyone who read it “may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing may have life in His name.” (John 20:29) John also wanted his reader to grasp the humanity of the One who died for us. Jesus’ humanity is seen throughout so much of the apostle’s writings. Jesus got hungry and thirsty, He cried, and He felt compassion for those who were far from God. At some point in our lives, we all probably wonder why deep pain comes into our lives. Pain and suffering prompt valid questions. The problem with us is we often demand an answer instead of submitting to God’s sovereign plan. Christ was troubled deep within His soul, but when it came to His darkest hour of decision, He said “not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)

3) The word “now” is used three times in verses 27-31. What is its significance in the context of the passage?
It IS finished! The significance of the word “now” means everything to those of us who have trusted in Christ’s work. Jesus said His life was not taken from Him. He willingly offered up His life at just the right time. (Romans 5:6) His attitude is now the standard for all believers in every area of life: family conflicts, ethics, responding to our enemies, interpreting suffering. The lyrics to a Big Daddy Weave song say it perfectly. I am able to confidently share the amazing news that is my story, and it’s the story of all the redeemed.
If I told you my story, you would hear victory over the enemy.
And if I told you my story, you would hear freedom that was won for me.
And if I told you my story, you would hear how life overcome the grave!
If I should speak then let it be of the grace that is greater than all my sin;
of when justice was served and where mercy wins;
of the kindness of Jesus that draws me in.
Oh, to tell you my story is to tell of Him!
THIS is my story; this is my song! Praising my Savior all the day long!

What do YOU think?! Share Here!
Missing the connection to our other Journey Study?
Catch up with Honor And Justice!

Digging Deeper is for Everyone!

1) Take this passage (or any other passage).
2) Read it, and the verses around it,
several times
3) Write down your questions
as you think of them.
4) Ask specific culture related questions and be ready to dig around for your answers. Google them, use www.studylight.org, or look them up in a study Bible and read the footnotes (click on the little letters next to a word and it will show you
other related verses!). (www.esvbible.org)
5) Check your applications with other trusted Christians that you are in community with and embrace the fullness of God
in your everyday!

Digging Deeper Community

Share What You’ve Learned!
Pray Together!
Join us in the GT Facebook Community!

Our Current Study Theme!

This is Esther Week Three!
Don’t miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to receive every GT Journey Study!

Why Dig Deeper?

Finding the original meaning is a huge deal when we study Scripture and can make all the difference in our understanding as we apply God’s truths to our everyday lives.

In our modern-day relationships, we want people to understand our original intention as we communicate; how much more so between God and humanity?!

Here’s a little bit more on why we take Digging Deeper so seriously.

Study Tools

We love getting help while we study and www.studylight.org is one of many excellent resources, providing the original Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) with an English translation.

Want to know more about a specific word in a verse? Click on “Strong’s Interlinear Bible” then click the word you’d like to study. Discover “origin”, “definition” and hear the original pronunciation – That Is Awesome!

Want more background? Click “Study Tools”, then pick a few commentaries to read their scholarly approach, keeping in mind that just because a commentary says it, doesn’t mean it’s true. (just like the internet :-))

Memorize It!

Download this week’s verse and make it your phone’s lockscreen!
Tap and hold on your mobile device to save.