1) John presents Jesus as the Son of Man by revealing Him as being lifted up to die and His coming glorification.
2) The 'signs' point to the uniqueness and power of Jesus and His relation to God. They show Jesus to be both the Messiah and the Son of God.
3) It changes your understanding of the verse because you realize that it is God who is completely drawing us to Himself. We are always showing resistance. It reveals the love of God. It reveals His mercy, compassion, patience, longsuffering, and grace. Even though we pull away from Him He still pursues us and loves us.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Ch. 3 Questions
1.) What was John trying to get readers to know about “son of man”, Jesus, instead of “man of God”, Jesus?
John’s purpose in using the “Son of Man” was intended to shed light on Christ’s heavenly origin and God’s saving work, both in His being lifted up to die and in glorification.
2.) What was Jonh’s purpose in using the word “sign” according to Scott and what does it reveal about the character of Jesus?
The word “sign” is intended to point people to Jesus. In particular the sign’s help validate Christ as Messiah and also His being the Son of God. In general the “signs” show us that Christ’s power is legitimate and real and is an avenue to further His kingdom in truth.
3.) John 6:44-45 significance in Greek word ‘Helkuo’. How does understanding this word’s meaning change your understanding of the verse and/or of God?
The Greek word helkuo literally means to drag, haul, pull, and attract. In addition, it always implies resistance. In relation to this passage of scripture and as Scott speaks of, it leads us to the security of who God as well as His power in this world. Yes, you might question the freedom in the choice of the person placing his/her faith in the Lord but in v.45 it speaks of those who have been taught of God, which all people were taught and have a choice in hearing and learning from the Father which allows the action of being raised on the last day. The choice lies in the hearing and learning for the person, this may or may not be one of resistance but the majority of times resistance occurs as anyone attempts to hear and learn something new. In other words my understanding of this verse and of God affirms His power in this world and in my salvation. For as long as I commit to hearing and learning who God is and who he has created us to be I will be raised on the last day. (This is my own interpretation, I have not consulted any other source or insight other than what is presented by Scott. In saying this I admit that I could be way off base.)
John’s purpose in using the “Son of Man” was intended to shed light on Christ’s heavenly origin and God’s saving work, both in His being lifted up to die and in glorification.
2.) What was Jonh’s purpose in using the word “sign” according to Scott and what does it reveal about the character of Jesus?
The word “sign” is intended to point people to Jesus. In particular the sign’s help validate Christ as Messiah and also His being the Son of God. In general the “signs” show us that Christ’s power is legitimate and real and is an avenue to further His kingdom in truth.
3.) John 6:44-45 significance in Greek word ‘Helkuo’. How does understanding this word’s meaning change your understanding of the verse and/or of God?
The Greek word helkuo literally means to drag, haul, pull, and attract. In addition, it always implies resistance. In relation to this passage of scripture and as Scott speaks of, it leads us to the security of who God as well as His power in this world. Yes, you might question the freedom in the choice of the person placing his/her faith in the Lord but in v.45 it speaks of those who have been taught of God, which all people were taught and have a choice in hearing and learning from the Father which allows the action of being raised on the last day. The choice lies in the hearing and learning for the person, this may or may not be one of resistance but the majority of times resistance occurs as anyone attempts to hear and learn something new. In other words my understanding of this verse and of God affirms His power in this world and in my salvation. For as long as I commit to hearing and learning who God is and who he has created us to be I will be raised on the last day. (This is my own interpretation, I have not consulted any other source or insight other than what is presented by Scott. In saying this I admit that I could be way off base.)
Saturday, February 21, 2009
nppenland ch 3 questions
1. Scott tells us that Jesus is most commonly referred to as the "Son of man" in the gospel of John. What was John trying to get readers to know about Jesus as being the "Son of man", instead of emphasizing him as the "Son of God?"
Scott talks about John's concern in communicating that Jesus was "the Annointed One." This knLong awaited deliverer. I think that John was trying to communicate Jesus' humanity, but also his annointing. Throughout his Gospel, John mentions the Son of man being glorified, giving eternal life, given authority, etc. I have to think that John understood the neccesity and sacrifice that Christ made by being made human (as Paul describes in Philippians 2) but recgonized that difference in Him (His annointing) than any others that were claiming to be the "Messiah."
2. According to Scott John had a specific purpose in using the word „sign‟. What was John‟s his primary purpose in using this word according to Scott, and what does this word reveal about the character of Jesus?
Scott says the "signs" point to the unique power of who Jesus is and allowed His followers to compare Him to others. ("Who can do more signs that Him?" John is proving Jesus' identity to his audience by giving them signs as proof to His annointing. I think these signs point to Jesus' mercy. Many of The signs that he portrays are those that serve others. He has Mercy on sinful people that realize He has the power to help. John may be using lesser signs to show the power of Christ so that they may believe the greatest "sign," the ressurection, which would save them.
3. In Scott‟s discussion of John 6:44-45 he notes a significance about the Greek word helkuo. How does understanding the Greek meaning of this word change your understanding of the verse? and/or your understanding of God.
This word that John uses implies that God is willing to do anything to attract a sutbborn, sinful people to Himself. To Haul, Drag, Pull, or Attract. These four words are different ways that the Lord brings us to Him and back to Him. For me it proves that God puts value in His relationships with people and that he desires to bring individuals to Him.
Scott talks about John's concern in communicating that Jesus was "the Annointed One." This knLong awaited deliverer. I think that John was trying to communicate Jesus' humanity, but also his annointing. Throughout his Gospel, John mentions the Son of man being glorified, giving eternal life, given authority, etc. I have to think that John understood the neccesity and sacrifice that Christ made by being made human (as Paul describes in Philippians 2) but recgonized that difference in Him (His annointing) than any others that were claiming to be the "Messiah."
2. According to Scott John had a specific purpose in using the word „sign‟. What was John‟s his primary purpose in using this word according to Scott, and what does this word reveal about the character of Jesus?
Scott says the "signs" point to the unique power of who Jesus is and allowed His followers to compare Him to others. ("Who can do more signs that Him?" John is proving Jesus' identity to his audience by giving them signs as proof to His annointing. I think these signs point to Jesus' mercy. Many of The signs that he portrays are those that serve others. He has Mercy on sinful people that realize He has the power to help. John may be using lesser signs to show the power of Christ so that they may believe the greatest "sign," the ressurection, which would save them.
3. In Scott‟s discussion of John 6:44-45 he notes a significance about the Greek word helkuo. How does understanding the Greek meaning of this word change your understanding of the verse? and/or your understanding of God.
This word that John uses implies that God is willing to do anything to attract a sutbborn, sinful people to Himself. To Haul, Drag, Pull, or Attract. These four words are different ways that the Lord brings us to Him and back to Him. For me it proves that God puts value in His relationships with people and that he desires to bring individuals to Him.
Monday, February 16, 2009
1. What did the Jewish people expect the "Kingdom of God" to look like in redeeming Israel? Did these views mirror Jesus? (p. 49-55)
The Jewish people expected the Kingdom of God to be a renewal of all that had been under the Kingdom of Satan. In other words the Kingdom of God entailed national deliverance, cosmic renewal social order and the spiritual disposition of people would be changed. Ultimately the Kingdom of God was seen as a "reassertion of Gods right to rule over the universe and bringing humankind under his authority."
By all means did the Jewish views mirrored Jesus' plan and action. Little did many of them know that Christ was the Messiah. One aspect that I believe the Jewish people did not have a good grasp of was the process in which the Kingdom of God would manifest itself. For one Christs death but also the renewal process it seems was expected to happen automatically and fully at the coming of the Messiah. Renewal did come but suffering and struggle still remain at the surprise of some Jewish people.
2. Did the Synoptic gospels suggest the idea of 'Messianic Secrecy'? If so, did Scott's explanation suggest a strong reason for Jesus to deliberately conceal his identity? (p.55-6)
Who really knows the answer to this? From my point of view Scott's illustration and explanation of the differing views concerning the Messianic Secrecy it by all means is a possibility. Parts of the Synoptic Gospels does allude to such a secret but for what reasons I am not sure.
3. Why did Jesus want to be baptized? Why was this significant enlight of the Jews?
The reason for the baptism of Jesus was for identification with sinners. I also believe it was a public statement of his Messiahship, as well as the beginning of his ministry.
4. According to the text, has the Kingdom of God arrived or are we still awaiting its arrival?
The Jewish people expected the Kingdom of God to be a renewal of all that had been under the Kingdom of Satan. In other words the Kingdom of God entailed national deliverance, cosmic renewal social order and the spiritual disposition of people would be changed. Ultimately the Kingdom of God was seen as a "reassertion of Gods right to rule over the universe and bringing humankind under his authority."
By all means did the Jewish views mirrored Jesus' plan and action. Little did many of them know that Christ was the Messiah. One aspect that I believe the Jewish people did not have a good grasp of was the process in which the Kingdom of God would manifest itself. For one Christs death but also the renewal process it seems was expected to happen automatically and fully at the coming of the Messiah. Renewal did come but suffering and struggle still remain at the surprise of some Jewish people.
2. Did the Synoptic gospels suggest the idea of 'Messianic Secrecy'? If so, did Scott's explanation suggest a strong reason for Jesus to deliberately conceal his identity? (p.55-6)
Who really knows the answer to this? From my point of view Scott's illustration and explanation of the differing views concerning the Messianic Secrecy it by all means is a possibility. Parts of the Synoptic Gospels does allude to such a secret but for what reasons I am not sure.
3. Why did Jesus want to be baptized? Why was this significant enlight of the Jews?
The reason for the baptism of Jesus was for identification with sinners. I also believe it was a public statement of his Messiahship, as well as the beginning of his ministry.
4. According to the text, has the Kingdom of God arrived or are we still awaiting its arrival?
I believe yes, the Kingdom of God has arrived. I do not believe it has completely been fulfilled or has eliminated all of the Kingdom of Satan from this world. However, the path in which we do have freedom from the Kingdom of Satan has been paved and is one in which we are able to walk on as a result of Christs death and resurrection.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
1) The Jewish people believed that Satan's control of the material world would end and it would usher in a kingdom where God's people would see all of their problems solved. Cosmic renewal, as well as changes in social order and spiritual disposition were issues debated over with the ushering in of the Kingdom of God. The main change which was believed to take place though was national deliverance, which in the time of Jesus would have meant freedom from Rome.
Jesus' view of the Kingdom of God was not the same as the Jewish view of the Kingdom of God. While the Jews were waiting for a political leader who would put the nation of Israel's enemies under their feet, Jesus was ushering in a new age in which God was taking the world back from Satan.
2) I think the Scripture is rather clear that Jesus chose to keep his nature as the Messiah secret from certain people at certain times. Why he did that is another thing. I think Scott's explanation of why Jesus kept his identity secret is sufficient. There definitely would have been an enormous amount of expectations which came along with the Messiah and Jesus was wise in his speech in order to make sure that things would play out in God's time.
3) Jesus' baptism was important because it associated him with John's baptism which was declaring that the Messiah had come into the world. Jesus' baptism also established him as the Messianic King and the suffering servant which had been alluded to throughout the Old Testament. This was significant in light of the Jews because the Jews had the Old Testament Scriptures so they had what was needed to know that Jesus was indeed the Christ. However, he was the stumbling block which they would stumble over instead.
4) Yes, the Kingdom of God has arrived. Through Christ there is the idea that the Kingdom of God is realized and is present at this moment but is still awaiting its ultimate fulfillment in the future.
Jesus' view of the Kingdom of God was not the same as the Jewish view of the Kingdom of God. While the Jews were waiting for a political leader who would put the nation of Israel's enemies under their feet, Jesus was ushering in a new age in which God was taking the world back from Satan.
2) I think the Scripture is rather clear that Jesus chose to keep his nature as the Messiah secret from certain people at certain times. Why he did that is another thing. I think Scott's explanation of why Jesus kept his identity secret is sufficient. There definitely would have been an enormous amount of expectations which came along with the Messiah and Jesus was wise in his speech in order to make sure that things would play out in God's time.
3) Jesus' baptism was important because it associated him with John's baptism which was declaring that the Messiah had come into the world. Jesus' baptism also established him as the Messianic King and the suffering servant which had been alluded to throughout the Old Testament. This was significant in light of the Jews because the Jews had the Old Testament Scriptures so they had what was needed to know that Jesus was indeed the Christ. However, he was the stumbling block which they would stumble over instead.
4) Yes, the Kingdom of God has arrived. Through Christ there is the idea that the Kingdom of God is realized and is present at this moment but is still awaiting its ultimate fulfillment in the future.
Chapter 2
1. What did the Jewish people expect the "Kingdom of God" to look like in redeeming Israel? Did these views mirror Jesus? (p. 49-55)
They expected Satan to lose control over the material world. This in turn will solve their individual, social and environmental among other problems they had. They wanted to be recognized as the greatest of all nations and have the dominion of the political sphere.
2. Did the Synoptic gospels suggest the idea of 'Messianic Secrecy'? If so, did Scott's explanation suggest a strong reason for Jesus to deliberately conceal his identity? (p.55-6)
Yes, Jesus purpose of keeping “The Messianic Secret” might e due of timing. He didn’t want his Messiahship to be known until his death and mostly his resurrection when all His teachings and purpose of His coming will be clarified to all the ones who wanted to believe.
3. Why did Jesus want to be baptized? Why was this significant in light of the Jews? (pg. 52)
He wanted to be baptized because this will identify Him with John’s ministry in the fact that one can have a relationship with God. This was also the beginning of his commission; but most importantly because during His baptism the Jews could have recognized His Messiahship because the coming of the Holy Spirit, according to Isaiah was the symbol of His anointing, coronation or inauguration as the Servant of God. The declaration of the Father, according to Isaiah and Psalm 2 would associate Him with the family of King David, as a servant who will accomplish His mission thorough suffering but most that anything else as the ‘beloved Son’, the One who pleases the Father.
4. According to the text, has the Kingdom of God arrived or are we still awaiting its arrival?
According to the author of the text the Kingdom of God come when our Lord Jesus became flesh and dwell among us, bringing us the New Covenant, the hope of salvation and the expectation of being in the Kingdom of God one day.
1. What did the Jewish people expect the "Kingdom of God" to look like in redeeming Israel? Did these views mirror Jesus? (p. 49-55)
They expected Satan to lose control over the material world. This in turn will solve their individual, social and environmental among other problems they had. They wanted to be recognized as the greatest of all nations and have the dominion of the political sphere.
2. Did the Synoptic gospels suggest the idea of 'Messianic Secrecy'? If so, did Scott's explanation suggest a strong reason for Jesus to deliberately conceal his identity? (p.55-6)
Yes, Jesus purpose of keeping “The Messianic Secret” might e due of timing. He didn’t want his Messiahship to be known until his death and mostly his resurrection when all His teachings and purpose of His coming will be clarified to all the ones who wanted to believe.
3. Why did Jesus want to be baptized? Why was this significant in light of the Jews? (pg. 52)
He wanted to be baptized because this will identify Him with John’s ministry in the fact that one can have a relationship with God. This was also the beginning of his commission; but most importantly because during His baptism the Jews could have recognized His Messiahship because the coming of the Holy Spirit, according to Isaiah was the symbol of His anointing, coronation or inauguration as the Servant of God. The declaration of the Father, according to Isaiah and Psalm 2 would associate Him with the family of King David, as a servant who will accomplish His mission thorough suffering but most that anything else as the ‘beloved Son’, the One who pleases the Father.
4. According to the text, has the Kingdom of God arrived or are we still awaiting its arrival?
According to the author of the text the Kingdom of God come when our Lord Jesus became flesh and dwell among us, bringing us the New Covenant, the hope of salvation and the expectation of being in the Kingdom of God one day.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)