1 They’ve been challenged to receive the kingdom like little children 2 and reminded that Jesus’ priority is service, not status. They’ve asked for the best places in Jesus’ coming kingdom, doing so privately to steal a march on the others. Throughout the Gospels, the disciples jockeyed for position. Are there people, positions or gifts that you envy? How is that affecting your relationships? Reflect on life at work, church and in your relationships. What he has written is true and sufficient to enable others to believe. He signs off with the thought that so much more could have been written (v 25). John has already stated his purpose ( John 20:30,31).
There is no other way to live the Christian life.įollowing also brings the desire to help others to follow. It also suggests, as Peter will discover (vs 18,19), a life of self-denial and sacrifice ( Mark 8:34). It suggests staying close, learning from, imitating and obeying. ‘Following’ is a key theme in John’s Gospel (and the others) and is one way of understanding our relationship with Jesus (see John 1:35–40 10:1–6). Our priority is to follow him and not to allow ourselves to be distracted by speculation about others. Our destiny and that of our fellow Christians is in Jesus‘ hands. The danger is, as it was for Peter, that we become more interested in others’ relationship with God than our own (v 21). It’s good to be concerned and to show love and support for others, but it is possible for this to become an unhealthy interest.
John feels the need to explain what Jesus actually said. The rumour that John would not die had gone viral.
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