Gospel of John
We are now in the last week of Jesus’ life. His entry into Jerusalem, his final instructions to the crowds and to the disciples. In this final week Jesus predicts his death by crucifixion in two days. This is followed by the details of the sham trial to be conducted by the religious leaders to trap and murder Jesus. Now Jesus makes two shocking predictions – the one who will betray Him, and the one who will deny knowing him! If ever a spiritual movement looked destined for failure, it would be this last week of Jesus – the leader killed, the followings betraying Him or denying him as they scatter. Three shock waves in this final week. Jesus is now in a series of sham trial which contemn him to death.
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” 37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” John 18:36-37.
- Wisdom Requires Understanding Who God Is. At the core of Jesus’ ministry is the message of 0ther-worldliness – the recognition that our true and final home is with God in heaven. The battle is spiritual and real, but not for human or earthly memorials. The final story is not told on earth, but in heaven. There was no value in power and standing on earth, but in understanding who God was and is, in order to define the true life of a disciple and follower of Jesus. My kingdom is from another place.
- Wisdom Has its Sequel in Understanding Truth. There are many paths in life. In the final analysis, we are best off attached to that which is true and which is eternal. To cling to values and standards that are finite leads only to eventual dust and vapor and temporary results. Therefore, Jesus’ did not deny who He was. But if I spoke the truth, why do you strike me John 18:23.
- Wisdom Leads Us to the Winning Side in Life. Jesus stopped his followers from a physical confrontation that prevented the purposes of his life, namely his death on the cross. Peter was reprimanded for taking up a sword. He instructed his servants to not prevent his arrest. He conceded the betrayal of Judas which lead to his arrest. But the core issue was and is this: Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.
In the final analysis of life, judgment and discernment is critical for right directions for life. We are to make judgments that count for eternity.
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:12-13.
