Daily Bread for Nov 8, John 3-4

Today's readings are Jhn 3-4. 

As John's gospel develops, we will see that Jesus, while living and functioning as a Jew in a Jewish culture, offers some radically nontraditional teachings.

Jesus tells Nicodemus, a respected teacher, he must be born again (Jhn 3:1-21). This new birth is available through Jesus alone, who has come from heaven. But, Nicodemus is confused; he thinks he's saved by his Jewish lineage. Jesus comes to give new life and institute a new covenant. The startling news is that belief in Jesus is what constitutes being a member of God's kingdom, not a birthright. 

John the Baptist, a popular and revered prophet of God, says Jesus is the Christ (Jhn 3:22-36). John is the last of the Old Testament prophets. He does exactly what true prophets are called to do -- exalt Christ and proclaim His gospel. "Behold, the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." (Jhn 1:29). 

Jesus offers living water to a Samaritan woman (Jhn 4:1-42). As a result, she and her village become believers. The Samaritans were despised by the Jews and thought not to be truly Jewish. In sharing the gospel with this half-Jew-half-Gentile woman, we find that Jesus did not come exclusively for the Jews. He came for all peoples. 

Jesus heals an official's son while He is in Cana (Jhn 4:46-54). The ailing son is in Capernaum, about 30 miles away, more than a day's walk. In this long-distance miracle, we learn that Jesus has authority over sickness...and time and space. 

The Sea of Galilee from the shore at Capernaum

This is a valuable lesson to believers today. Jesus’s promises span eons and geographic borders touching our hearts and lives today.