2019-5-3

John 5:1-47

In this chapter, there were two accusations from the Jews toward Jesus: breaking the Sabbath and blasphemy, a deadly violation on “Moses’ law”.  They criticized on Jesus’s work and who He Is, using the law to go against the One who commanded it. Jesus spent a big portion of this chapter, trying to tell them that they missed the point, and missed the mark.

Where the Jews missed the point:

First, Jesus told them he has been always doing God’s work (no matter it is Sabbath or not; Every day is His day!). He also revealed his loving relationship with the Father, and the more amazing God’s work is on the way. (V19-20)

Then, Jesus expanded a little bit on the work of God he is tasked with and implication on human beings – Giving life and judgment  – whoever believe will have eternal life, others will stay condemned. (V21-30)

Where the Jews missed the mark:

They failed to recognize who Jesus is, though many testimonies have been provided – the Father, John the Baptist, and the Scriptures. They failed to believe any of them, lest believe in Jesus and the work he was doing. (V31-47)

Lord, thank you for giving us the book of John and even greater thanks for saving us from perish so that we would not miss the point and ultimately miss the mark. Please help us recognize every day of who you are and what you have done, help us to stay on your path and do your work as you commanded us. Amen.          —- Ivy Lin