The Power of 1

The first chapter of the book of John is one of the most amazing literary works in the Bible. Yes, I know that chapters are not how the book was written, but the beginning of the book remains the same. If one were to think from the point of view of the first century audience this Gospel develops even greater depth.

John begins with the Word which connects Jesus with the OT and with eternity. John also cuts to the chase in verses 11-12 as he lays out the purpose of Jesus' life and mission. John the baptist confirms the testimony of who Jesus is and what his role will ultimately be as a sacrifice for sins. Then John concludes with the beginning of response to this message as the disciples are called. Throughout these verses connection can be made with many OT passages and 1 st Century thoughts so that there is no mistaking that Jesus is the Christ the Son of God.

I am blown away by the progression from the Old Testament, the Law, the tabernacle, and relationship of God with Israel to Jesus Christ living amongst us. Not only did he set aside his deity he came to suffer and die so that we may live.

As one goes forward in John it should be noted that Jesus refers to a time greater than this. A time greater than His being present on the earth. That time is the age we live in now. I often had thought that living with Jesus in his time would be the best but through his plan he prepared the way for "greater things"

Just some food for thought.

The Witness To The Word

(click here to listen)

Learn about John the baptizer and what he said about Jesus Christ.

Word of God Speak

(click here to listen)

Note: This sermon has extreme technical recording problems, so not all of is available for listening.

Validity of Scripture

WHy is the Bible true? How do we know it is God's Word? How did its truthfulness survey time and translation? Does it matter if John wrote the Gospel of John?

These are all valid quesitons which beg for discussion. It is true that no one is ever argued into a relationship with Jesus Christ, but God has given plenty of verifiable evidence that the Bible is a truthful and reliable book. Here are 3 simple responses to what is know in the scholarly world as source criticism. Please read and interact with them. I will post my views later in the week.

1. THE BIBLE IS A GOOD BOOK WITH SOME FACTS MIXED WITH SOME STORY TELLING. THE OVERALL IDEAS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAT THE CORRECTNESS OF FACTS, PEOPLE, STORIES, OR TRANSLATIONS.

2. THE BIBLE IS SIMPLY A STORY BOOK.

3. THE BIBLE IS GOD'S WORD AND IS WITH OUT ERROR IN ITS ORIGINAL LANGUAGE. THE STORIES ARE FACTUAL, HISTORICAL, AND RELIABLE TRUTHS.

A popular Christian magazine had a article a few years ago which showed that many "evangelicals" in the U.S. hold to view #1 are they right? If so why. If not why.

Here is a recent Gallup poll that you may find interesting. (courtesy of the webmaster)

The Gospel of John, Introduction

Who Do You Say I Am? (click here)
In this introduction to the Gospel of John, Pastor Jack gives a great outline to the book and it's topics. We find out a few interesting things about the apostle John, as well as a historic view of the time in which his gospel was written.