Saturday, April 30, 2011

I am the Light of the World - Lesson 15 Scriptures and Quotes


Lesson 15: “I Am the Light of the World” – Scriptures and Quotes

Reading 1 – Excerpt from Bible Dictionary, “Feasts,” page 672 - The Feast of Tabernacles or of Ingathering, called by later Jews the Feast, and reckoned by them to be the greatest and most joyful of all, was celebrated on the fifteenth to twenty-first days of the seventh month. To the seven days was added an eighth (“the last day, that great day of the feast” (John 7:37), a day of holy convocation, which marked the ending not only of this particular feast, but of the whole festival season. The events celebrated were the sojourning of the children of Israel in the wilderness, and the gathering-in of all the fruits of the year. The sacrifices prescribed by the law were more numerous than for any other feast, and impressive ceremonies were added in later times, that is, (1) the drawing of water from Siloam and its libation on the altar (of this it was said that he who has not seen the joy of the drawing of water at the Feast of Tabernacles does not know what joy is); and (2) the illumination of the temple courts by four golden candelabra. It is probably to these ceremonies that our Lord refers in John 7:37 and 8:12. (3) The making of a canopy of willows over the altar. The characteristic rite of the Feast of Tabernacles was the dwelling in booths made of the boughs of trees.

Reading 2 - Elder Bruce R. McConkie described the Feast of Tabernacles as follows: "Coming five days after the Day of Atonement, it was thus celebrated when the sins of the chosen people had been removed and when their special covenant relation to Jehovah had been renewed and restored. Above all other occasions it was one for rejoicing, bearing testimony, and praising the Lord. In the full sense, it is the Feast of Jehovah, the one Mosaic celebration which, as part of the restitution of all things, shall be restored when Jehovah comes to reign personally upon the earth for a thousand years. Even now we perform one of its chief rituals in our solemn assemblies, the giving of the Hosanna Shout, and the worshipers of Jehovah shall yet be privileged to exult in other of its sacred rituals." (Promised Messiah, p426)

Reading 3 – John 7:14-17

Reading 4 - Elder John K. Carmack of the Seventy said: “Jesus explained, ‘If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself’ (John 7:17). In other words, as you try it you can know it is true. This requires the faith to try, but it yields spiritual evidence. To the disciple who tries the experiment will come conviction, knowledge, and light” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1988, 32; or Ensign, Nov. 1988, 26).

READ - Elder Bruce R. McConkie wrote: "In the final analysis the truth of doctrine can only be known by revelation gained as a result of obedience." (Mormon Doctrine, p205)

Reading 5 – John 8:3-11

President Spencer W. Kimball wrote: His command to her was, “Go and sin no more.” He was directing the sinful woman to go her way, abandon her evil life, commit no more sin, transform her life. He was saying, “Go, woman, and start your repentance”; and he was indicating to her the beginning step–to abandon her transgressions. (Spencer W. Kimball, The Miracle of Forgiveness, p. 165)

Reading 6 - Elder Marvin J. Ashton said: “The scribes and Pharisees brought before the Savior a woman taken in adultery. Their purpose was not to show love for either the woman or the Savior, but to embarrass and trick Jesus. … Jesus did not condone adultery; there is no doubt about His attitude toward proper moral conduct. [But] He chose to teach with love—to show the scribes and Pharisees the need of serving the individual for her best good and to show the destructive forces of trickery and embarrassment” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1981, 31–32; or Ensign, May 1981, 24).

Reading 7 – John 8:12

Reading 8 – Doctrine and Covenants 84:45-46

Doctrine and Covenants 88:6-13

Reading 9 – John 8:31-36

Reading 10 – John 7:27-38

John 4:10-11,13-14

Thursday, April 28, 2011

The Feast of Tabernacles

The Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23:34) or of Ingathering (Ex. 23:16), called by later Jews the Feast (John 7:37), and reckoned by them to be the greatest and most joyful of all, was celebrated on the fifteenth to twenty-first days of the seventh month. To the seven days was added an eighth (“the last day, that great day of the feast” (John 7:37), a day of holy convocation, which marked the ending not only of this particular feast, but of the whole festival season.

The events celebrated were the sojourning of the children of Israel in the wilderness (Lev. 23:43), and the gathering-in of all the fruits of the year (Ex. 23:16).

The sacrifices prescribed by the law were more numerous than for any other feast, and impressive ceremonies were added in later times, that is, (1) the drawing of water from Siloam and its libation on the altar (of this it was said that he who has not seen the joy of the drawing of water at the Feast of Tabernacles does not know what joy is); and (2) the illumination of the temple courts by four golden candelabra. It is probably to these ceremonies that our Lord refers in John 7:37 and 8:12. (3) The making of a canopy of willows over the altar.

The characteristic rite of the Feast of Tabernacles was the dwelling in booths made of the boughs of trees. This rite seems to have been neglected from the time of Joshua to the time of Ezra (Neh. 8:17). It is practiced by the Jews of modern times. The Hebrew word for the Feast of Tabernacles is Sukkot. Following is a photo of Sukkot booths in Jerusalem:




Remarkable celebrations of the Feast of Tabernacles took place at the opening of Solomon’s temple (1 Kgs. 8:2; 2 Chr. 5:3; 7:8), and in the days of Ezra and Nehemiah (Neh. 8:14). Jeroboam adapted this feast to the later seasons of the northern kingdom (1 Kgs. 12:32). Zechariah in prophetic imagery represents the nations as coming up to Jerusalem to keep the Feast of Tabernacles, and describes the curse that should fall on those who did not come (Zech. 14:16–19).

From "Feasts" in the Bible Dictionary

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

I Am the Light of the World - Class Member Study Guide


"Lesson 15: “I Am the Light of the World”," New Testament Class Member Study Guide, (1997)

John 7–8

• What did Jesus instruct the people to do to gain a testimony of his teachings? (See John 7:17.) How can you apply this instruction in your life?

• What does it mean that Jesus is the light of the world? (See the scripture chain in this section.) How can you help others see the light that Christ offers? (See Matthew 5:16; 28:18–20; Philippians 2:14–15.)

• What did Jesus promise to those who would continue to follow him? (See John 8:31–32.) What does truth free us from? (See John 8:33–34.) How does committing sin place us in bondage? (See Alma 12:11; 34:35.) How has knowing the truth made you free?

Suggestion for Family Discussion

Turn off the lights in the room, and close the curtains or blinds. Ask a family member to do a simple task requiring sight, such as reading a scripture or describing a picture. Then turn on the lights, open the curtains or blinds, and ask the family member to do the task again. Discuss why it is easier to do the task with the light on. Read John 8:12, and ask family members to discuss ways that Jesus Christ is the light of the world.

Scripture Chain: Jesus Christ—“The Light of the World”

John 8:12

Psalm 27:1

Isaiah 2:5

Alma 38:9

3 Nephi 15:9

D&C 88:6–13

Monday, April 25, 2011

Lesson 14 - Who Is My Neighbour?

Purpose: To learn more about how to humble ourselves, forgive others, and show charity for one another.

Attention Activity


Jeremy Robison brought his four year old daughter, Sylie, to the front of the class and briefly describe some of the her admirable qualities. After he finished, class members to thought of childlike qualities that Jesus would want us to have and they were listed on the chalkboard.

This lesson discusses the importance of developing childlike qualities and treating all people with humility and kindness.

Scripture Discussion and Application

How we can follow the Savior’s teachings about humility, forgiveness, and charity?

1. Jesus teaches that we must become as little children.

Read Matthew 18:1–6, 10–11, 14.

• Why do you think the disciples were concerned about who would be the greatest in the Lord’s kingdom? (Matthew 18:1; Mark 9:33–34). How might we sometimes make similar errors? How can we set aside such concerns?

• What is Jesus’ counsel to those who desire to achieve true greatness in his kingdom? (See Matthew 18:2–4; Mark 9:35.) Why is it sometimes difficult to follow this counsel? How does this counsel compare with what the world teaches about how to achieve greatness?

• What does it mean to become as little children? (See Mosiah 3:19. Although children are not perfect, they have many qualities that we must develop to inherit the kingdom of heaven. These qualities include humility, meekness, and a willingness to believe.) What have you learned from children? How can we become more childlike and more submissive to the will of our Father in Heaven?

• What does it mean to “offend one of these little ones”? (See Matthew 18:6, footnote 6a; in this context, offend means to cause to stumble.) What are some of the ways people cause children to stumble? (Answers may include being a poor example to them, criticizing them unkindly, failing to teach them, and abusing them.) How does the Lord regard these offenses? (See Matthew 18:6.)

Elder M. Russell Ballard stated: “We hear disturbing reports of parents or guardians who are so far removed from the Spirit of Christ that they abuse children. Whether this abuse is physical, verbal, or the less evident but equally severe emotional abuse, it is an abomination and a serious offense to God” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1991, 107; or Ensign, May 1991, 80).

• How can being childlike ourselves help us care for children? What can we do to carry out God’s will that “[not] one of these little ones should perish”? (Matthew 18:14).

2. Through the parable of the unmerciful servant, Jesus teaches about forgiveness.

Read Matthew 18:15, 21–35.

• In Matthew 18:15, what did the Lord say we should do if we have been offended? Why is this the best way to resolve disputes?

• How did Jesus respond when Peter asked how often he should forgive? (See Matthew 18:22. Jesus used this high number to teach that we should always forgive others.) Why is it sometimes difficult to forgive? How have you been blessed as you have forgiven others or been forgiven by them?

• To further emphasize the importance of forgiving others, Jesus gave the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:23–35). Whom do the king and servants represent? (See Matthew 18:35. The king represents Heavenly Father, and the servants represent us.) How are we like the king’s servant in our debt to the Lord? (See Matthew 18:24–27.) What must we do to be forgiven of our “debt”?

• What can we learn from the king’s example in forgiving others? (See Matthew 18:33.) What are some of the dangers of not forgiving others? (See Matthew 18:34–35.)

3. Through the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus teaches about charity.

Read Luke 10:25–37. Display the picture of the good Samaritan.

• How did Jesus respond to the lawyer who asked what he should do to inherit eternal life? (See Luke 10:25–28.) How do the commandments to love God and our neighbors encompass all of the gospel? How can we obey these two commandments more fully?

• How did Jesus respond when the lawyer asked, “Who is my neighbour?” (See Luke 10:29–37.) What does this parable teach about who our neighbors are?

President Howard W. Hunter said: “We need to remember that though we make our friends, God has made our neighbors—everywhere. Love should have no boundary; we should have no narrow loyalties” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1986, 44; or Ensign, Nov. 1986, 35).

• What did the priest and Levite do when they saw the man who had been robbed and wounded? (See Luke 10:31–32.) What are some ways that people need help today? What are some reasons we do not help others in need? (See Mosiah 4:16–19 for one example.)

• How did the good Samaritan help the man who had been robbed and wounded? (See Luke 10:33–35.) What characteristics of a good neighbor did the Samaritan have? How have you been blessed by “good Samaritans”? How can we be “good Samaritans”? (See Mosiah 4:26.)

Conclusion

We testify of the importance of following the Savior’s example by humbling ourselves, forgiving others, and showing charity for one another. Challenge class members to live these teachings.

Additional Teaching Ideas

The following material supplements the suggested lesson outline. You may want to use one or more of these ideas as part of the lesson.

1. Mary and Martha

Read Luke 10:38–42.

• How was Martha serving the Lord? What was the “good part” that Mary had chosen? How do we sometimes become so “cumbered about much serving” that we don’t receive Jesus as we should? What can we learn from these verses?

2. “Suffer the little children to come unto me” (Mark 10:14)

The Savior’s teaching that we should become as little children, you may also want to discuss the account of his blessing the children in Mark 10:13–16.

• How did Jesus’ disciples respond when the little children were brought to him? (See Mark 10:13.) What did Jesus tell his disciples? (See Mark 10:14–15.) What did Jesus do for the children? (See Mark 10:16.) What can we learn about Jesus from this account? How can we better follow the example he set in this account?

3. Additional discussion of Matthew 18

• Read Matthew 18:8–9 and Mark 9:43–48 (see also Matthew 5:29–30). What do these verses mean? (See Matthew 18:9, footnote 9a, which indicates that the Joseph Smith Translation identifies these offending elements as people who lead us astray. It is better to end our association with people than to allow them to lead us into sin. See also Joseph Smith Translation, Mark 9:40–48.)

• The Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 18:11 records Jesus as saying that little children do not need repentance (footnote 11c). Why is this so? (See Moroni 8:11–12.) How are little children “alive in Christ”? (See Moroni 8:12; D&C 29:46–47.) What must we do to become “alive in Christ”? (See Matthew 18:4; Mosiah 3:19; Moroni 8:10.)

• Read Matthew 18:11–14. How can we apply the parable of the lost sheep in our lives? How have you or someone you know been blessed by someone else who followed the principle of this parable?

4. “The Lord appointed other seventy also” (Luke 10:1)


• Read Luke 10:1–24. How do the Lord’s instructions to the Seventy compare with the instructions he gave the Twelve in Matthew 10? What are the responsibilities of the Seventy today? (See D&C 107:25, 34, 38, 93–97.)


5. The sanctity of the marriage relationship


Matthew 19:1–12 describes a situation in which the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus by asking him about the lawfulness of divorce (see also Mark 10:1–12). Divorce was a much-discussed issue among Jewish scholars and leaders, and the Pharisees hoped that Jesus’ answer to their question would allow them to stir up anger among the Jews. Read Matthew 19:3–9 aloud.

• What was Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ question in verse 3? (See Matthew 19:4–6. He told them that divorce was not ordained of God.) Why did Moses allow divorce among the Israelites? (See Matthew 19:7–8.)

In ancient Israel, a man could put away, or divorce, his wife for insignificant reasons. Jesus taught that in a perfect world, such as the celestial kingdom, divorce does not exist. Because the earth is not yet perfect, divorce is allowed but should not happen except for the most serious reasons. Matthew 19:9 indicates that a man who put away his wife for a frivolous reason was still married to her in the eyes of God, and he thus committed adultery if he married another woman. (See James E. Talmage, Jesus the Christ, 3rd ed. [1916], 473–75, 484; see also Bruce R. McConkie, The Mortal Messiah, 4 vols. [1979–81], 2:138–39.)

• What roles do humility, forgiveness, and charity play in a successful marriage? How can striving to be Christlike help us in marriage and other relationships?

• How can we help persons who have suffered the trauma of divorce?

Monday, April 18, 2011

Assignment for Easter Sunday School Lesson

"Lesson 14: “Who Is My Neighbour?”," New Testament Class Member Study Guide, (1997)

Matthew 18; Luke 10

• What is Jesus’ counsel to those who desire to achieve true greatness in his kingdom? (See Matthew 18:2–4; Mark 9:35.) How can we become more childlike and more submissive to the will of our Father in Heaven?

• In teaching the parable of the unmerciful servant, Jesus emphasized the importance of forgiving others (Matthew 18:23–35). How are we like the king’s servant in our debt to the Lord? What can you learn from the king’s example in forgiving others? What are some of the dangers of not forgiving others? (See Matthew 18:34–35.)

• What can you learn from the parable of the good Samaritan? (See Luke 10:25–37.) How have you been blessed by “good Samaritans”? How can you be a “good Samaritan”? (See Mosiah 4:26.)

Suggestion for Family Home Evening Tonight

Read the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). Give particular attention to the Savior’s invitation to “go, and do thou likewise” (Luke 10:37). Then make a list of your friends, relatives, and other acquaintances, asking each family member to contribute at least one name to the list. Make plans to serve one or two of the people on the list in the coming week.

As part of this family discussion, you may want to sing together “Have I Done Any Good?” (Hymns, no. 223).
Scripture Chain: “Love Thy Neighbour”

Luke 10:25–37

Leviticus 19:18

Matthew 22:35–40

John 13:34–35

Mosiah 2:17

D&C 38:24–25

Blessings of the Priesthood

I would like to share with you one of the best kept secrets in the Church. It is a blog called Blessing Young Women and each day gives fabulous insights for our youth. Its URL is http://blessingyw.blogspot.com/ or you can click here.

Yesterday, we learned about Priesthood keys. This blog has a fascinating collection of video clips and articles about the blessings of the Priesthood that would be worth your while to study.

You might be fascinated to learn that the author's pen name is Abish.

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Lesson 13 - I Will Give Unto Thee the Keys of the Kingdom

Purpose

To strengthen our testimonies that Jesus is the Christ and that the priesthood keys bestowed on the Mount of Transfiguration have been restored. What doctrine if understood would help us make better use of this sacred power?


Attention Activity


Many years ago President Spencer W. Kimball and several other Church leaders visited the small cathedral in Copenhagen, Denmark, that houses Bertel Thorvaldsen’s famous statues of Jesus Christ and the Twelve Apostles. Speaking of this experience, Elder Rex D. Pinegar said: “As we looked at those beautiful works of art we noted that Peter was sculptured with large keys in his hands. … As we were ready to leave the cathedral, the Danish caretaker … was standing near the door awaiting our departure. President Kimball shook his hand [and] thanked him for his kindness in letting us visit the cathedral. Then the president began an explanation of the church established by Jesus Christ and of its importance to us. … Gathering President Tanner, Elder Monson, and Elder Packer closer to him, the president continued, ‘We are living apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. There are Twelve Apostles and three others who are the presidency of the Church. We hold the real keys, as Peter did, and we use them every day. They are in use constantly’” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1976, 104; or Ensign, Nov. 1976, 69).

This lesson will discuss priesthood keys and how Peter received them on the Mount of Transfiguration.

Scripture Discussion and Application

1. Jesus heals the daughter of a Gentile and feeds more than 4,000 people.

Discuss Matthew 15:21–39. Read selected verses aloud.

• What did the woman from Canaan ask Jesus to do? (See Matthew 15:22.) Why didn’t Jesus grant her request immediately? (See Matthew 15:24. She was a Gentile—not of the house of Israel. At that time, the gospel was not yet offered to the Gentiles.) Why did Jesus finally heal the woman’s daughter? (See Matthew 15:28.) What can we learn from this woman? (Answers may include that those who do not have the gospel fulness may nevertheless have great faith, and that we should not lose faith when blessings are not granted as quickly as we wish.)


• The Savior departed for the Sea of Galilee, traveling through Decapolis (Mark 7:31). Decapolis was an area east of the Sea of Galilee where many Gentiles lived. How did the Lord show compassion for the people there? (See Matthew 15:29–31.) How did the multitude react? (See Matthew 15:31.) What miracles in our day have caused you to glorify God?

• The multitude stayed with Jesus for three days, and when it was time for them to leave, Jesus did not want to send them away hungry. What miracle did he perform for them? (See Matthew 15:32–38.)

This miracle was different from the earlier feeding of the 5,000 (Matthew 14:15–21) in that many of these people were Gentiles. Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that with the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus “was laying the foundation for his incomparable sermon on the Bread of Life” (John 6:22–69; see lesson 12). With the later feeding of the 4,000, Jesus was symbolically teaching that in the future, living bread would be offered to the Gentile nations. (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. [1966–73], 1:375.)

2. Peter is promised the keys of the kingdom.

Read Matthew 16:13–19.

• Jesus left Decapolis and went to the area of Caesarea Philippi, where he asked his disciples, “Whom say ye that I am?” (Matthew 16:15). What was Peter’s response? (See Matthew 16:16.) What was the source of Peter’s testimony? (See Matthew 16:17.) What can we learn from this account about our testimonies?


• Jesus said to Peter, “Upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the rock Jesus referred to is revelation (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 274). In what way is revelation the foundation of the Lord’s Church?


• The Savior promised to give Peter the “keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 16:19). What are these keys? Why are they necessary? (See D&C 128:9–10; 132:46.) Who holds them today?

President Joseph F. Smith taught:

“The Priesthood in general is the authority given to man to act for God. Every man ordained to any degree of the Priesthood, has this authority delegated to him.

“But it is necessary that every act performed under this authority shall be done at the proper time and place, in the proper way, and after the proper order. The power of directing these labors constitutes the keys of the Priesthood. In their fulness, the keys are held by only one person at a time, the prophet and president of the Church. He may delegate any portion of this power to another, in which case that person holds the keys of that particular labor” (Gospel Doctrine, 5th ed. [1939], 136).


• Why is a conviction that the prophet holds these keys an essential part of our testimonies?

3. Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John.

Read Matthew 17:1–9. About a week after Peter was promised the keys of the kingdom, he, James, and John witnessed the Transfiguration of the Savior and received important knowledge and keys. This was one of the most significant events in the New Testament. It helped prepare Jesus for his Atonement and fortified the three Apostles for the additional responsibilities they would soon have as leaders of the Church.

• What does transfiguration mean? (A temporary change in a person’s appearance and nature; a transformation to a more glorified state. It is brought about by the power of God. See D&C 67:11; Moses 1:11.)


• According to Matthew 17:1–5, what happened when Jesus, Peter, James, and John were on the Mount of Transfiguration?


1. a. Jesus’ face shone like the sun, and his clothing became brilliantly white.
2. b. Moses and Elias (Elijah; see footnote 3b) appeared.
3. c. “A bright cloud overshadowed them,” and they heard the voice of the Father bearing witness of his Son.

The name Elias is used several ways in the scriptures. In Matthew 17:3–4 it is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew name Elijah. In other places (such as Matthew 17:10–13), it is a title describing someone as a forerunner, or preparer.

Latter-day prophets have taught more about what happened on the Mount of Transfiguration.

1. a. Peter, James, and John saw a vision of the transfiguration of the earth at the Savior’s Second Coming (D&C 63:20–21).
2. b. They were “transfigured before [Christ]” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 158).
3. c. They were taught about the Savior’s death and resurrection (Joseph Smith Translation, Luke 9:31).
4. d. They received from Jesus, Moses, and Elijah the priesthood keys they would need to govern the Church after the Savior’s death (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 158; Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:110).



In 1836 Moses and Elijah returned again to the earth. They laid their hands on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery to restore the same keys given to Peter, James, and John. Which keys did Moses restore? (See D&C 110:11. The keys of the gathering of Israel.) Which keys did Elijah restore? (See D&C 110:13–16. The keys of the sealing power.) How are these keys used today? (In missionary work and temple work, which are conducted under the direction of the President of the Church.)


Elder David B. Haight taught that Jesus’ Transfiguration “was meant for our spiritual enlightenment as well as for those who were personal witnesses” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1977, 8; or Ensign, May 1977, 7). What can we learn from the Transfiguration to help us when we need spiritual strength?



We should follow the Savior’s example by praying fervently when we need spiritual strength (Luke 9:28). Speaking of the Transfiguration, Elder Haight said: “Perhaps Jesus felt not only a sense of the heavenly calm which that solitary opportunity for communion with His Father would bring, but even more, a sense that He would be supported in the coming hour by ministrations not of this earth. … As He prayed to His Father, He was elevated far above the doubt and wickedness of the world which had rejected Him.”


We can have the assurance that Jesus will strengthen us as he did Peter, James, and John. Elder Haight said, “He took His three apostles with Him in the belief that they, after having seen His glory … might be fortified, that their faith might be strengthened to prepare them for the insults and humiliating events which were to follow.”


We can be strengthened by testimony of the Savior (Matthew 17:5) and by the doctrines of the gospel. Elder Haight said, “The three chosen apostles were taught of [the Savior’s] coming death and also His resurrection, teachings that would strengthen each of them in the eventful days ahead.”

Conclusion

As Latter-day Saints we have information to help us understand what took place on the Mount of Transfiguration. Testify of the importance of revelation in the Church today and the necessity of priesthood keys. Assure class members that we, like Peter, can know through the Holy Ghost that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.
Additional Teaching Idea

The following material supplements the lesson outline:

Instances when the Father testified of the Son

There are four instances recorded in the scriptures when the Father introduced and testified of his Son. One of them is discussed in this lesson.


Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:13–17)


The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–9)


Jesus’ appearance to the Nephites (3 Nephi 11:1–7)


Joseph Smith’s First Vision (Joseph Smith—History 1:13–17)

Monday, April 11, 2011

Lesson 13 - Advance Preparation - Using the Priesthood in Your Home

"Lesson 13: “I Will Give unto Thee the Keys of the Kingdom”,"

New Testament Class Member Study Guide, (1997)

Matthew 15:21–17:9

• Jesus said to Peter, “Upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the rock Jesus referred to is revelation (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], 274). In what way is revelation the foundation of the Lord’s Church?


• Elder David B. Haight taught that Jesus’ Transfiguration “was meant for our spiritual enlightenment as well as for those who were personal witnesses” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1977, 8; or Ensign, May 1977, 7). What can you learn from the Transfiguration to help you when you need spiritual strength? (See Matthew 17:1–5.)

Suggestion for Family Discussion

Read Matthew 16:13–17. Explain that Peter gained a testimony of Jesus Christ through revelation and that we can gain a testimony of the Savior in the same way.

Tell family members about how you have received a testimony of Jesus Christ and what you continue to do to strengthen your testimony.

As appropriate, ask family members to bear their testimonies.

Encourage them to strengthen their testimonies through daily prayer, scripture study, and obedience to the commandments of God.

Scripture Chain: Revelation

Proverbs 29:18

Amos 3:7

1 Corinthians 2:9–12

Galatians 1:11–12

2 Peter 1:20–21

Alma 5:46

Moroni 10:5

Sunday, April 10, 2011


Lesson 12: “I Am the Bread of Life”, New Testament Gospel Doctrine Teacher’s Manual, (2002)

1. Introduction

a) We are at the beginning of the third year of the Savior’s mortal ministry

i) This year extends from the third Passover to the final Passover.

ii) Over the course of His ministry, we see His teachings reflect an overall plan to help His followers grow and develop, culminating, of course in His death and resurrection

(1) 18 events were recorded in the Gospels in first year.

(2) 27 events were recorded in second year.

(3) 72 events were recorded in third year.

b) Harmony of the Gospels

i) Turn to page 689 in the Bible Dictionary

ii) This is an example of a harmony or harmonization of the Gospels

(1) If you look at the top of page 689, you see this is a listing for the Ministry of the Messiah, continuing an account of His Second Galilean Ministry

(2) Events in the Savior’s life are in the left-hand column

(3) In the next column we see a listing of the location

(4) The next four columns are for references in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John

(5) The right-hand column is for a listing of references in latter-day revelation

(6) If you look near the bottom of page 689, you’ll see Feeding the five thousand listed.

(a) Looking across the columns, you’ll see that this miracle is recorded in all four of the Gospels

(i) This is unusual

(b) If you look up and down the columns on these two pages, you will see many items that are recorded by Matthew, Mark and Luke, but not John

c) Gospels as Testimony

i) READ – Gospels in Bible Dictionary – Page 683 – Second and Third Paragraphs - The four Gospels are not so much biographies as they are testimonies. They do not reveal a day-by-day story of the life of Jesus; rather, they tell who Jesus was, what he said, what he did, and why it was important. The records of Matthew, Mark, and Luke present a somewhat similar collection of materials and have considerable phraseology in common, as well as similar main points, and thus are sometimes labeled as the “Synoptic Gospels” (meaning “see-alike”). Even so, each is unique and has much detail that is not shared by the others. John’s record is quite different from the other three in vocabulary, phraseology, and presentation of events.

It appears from the internal evidence of each record that Matthew was written to persuade the Jews that Jesus is the promised Messiah. To do so, he cites several O.T. prophecies and speaks repeatedly of Jesus as the Son of David, thus emphasizing his royal lineage. Mark appeals to a gentile audience and is fast moving, emphasizing the doings more than the sayings of the Lord. He occasionally gives geographical and cultural explanations—necessary procedure for non-Jewish readers (see Mark 2:26; 5:41; 7:2–13, 34). Luke offers his readers a polished literary account of the ministry of Jesus, presenting Jesus as the universal Savior of both Jews and gentiles. He dwells extensively on Jesus’ teachings and his doings. Luke is favorable toward the gentiles and also gives more stories involving women than do the other records. John’s account does not contain much of the fundamental information that the other records contain, and it is evident that he was writing to members of the Church who already had basic information about the Lord. His primary purpose was to emphasize the divine nature of Jesus as the Only Begotten Son of God in the flesh.

ii) Joseph Smith sometimes referred to the “testimonies” of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John instead of the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John

(1) Luke even addresses his testimony to a particular person.

(a) READ Luke 1:3-4

3 It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

4 That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

(i) Luke also addresses the Book of Acts to Theophilus

(ii) We don’t know who Theophilus is.

1. READ - Bible Dictionary – Theophilus – Page 785 - Theophilus. Friend of God. The person to whom Luke addressed his Gospel and the Acts. The use of the title “most excellent” (Luke 1:3) seems to show that he was a real personage. Cf. JST Luke 3:19–20.

iii) Sometimes people are upset about differences between the Gospels

(1) If we think of them as testimonies, perhaps directed to a particular person or group of people, we can understand why the authors would select particular events and describe them in different ways to instruct their audience.

iv) As mentioned in the Bible Dictionary quote we read about the Gospels, John’s testimony stands out as different from the others

(1) John mentions only seven miracles

(a) Some of the miracles John records are found only in John

(b) John refers to the miracles as “signs”

(c) John sees within each miracle a truth verifying that Jesus is the Christ.

(d) Each of the miracles John mentions is accompanied by a discourse or explanation by the Savior that illuminates the deeper meaning of the miracle.

(2) John’s Seven Miracles and Discourses

(a) Sign: Water converted to wine (2:1-11)

(b) Discourse: The natural man converted to the spiritual man (3:1-21)

(c) Sign: Bringing life to the nobleman’s son (4:46-54)

(d) Discourse: The living waters that bring everlasting life (4:1-42)

(e) Sign: The healing of the invalid on the Sabbath (5:1-18)

(f) Discourse: The Divine Son, the Lord of the Sabbath (5:19-47)

(g) Sign: Miracle feeding of the multitude with bread (6:1-15)

(h) Discourse: Christ is the bread of life (6:22-66)

(i) Sign: Jesus walks on water (6:12-21)

(j) Discourse: Christ, who will walk into the presence of the Father, offers living water to all (7:14-39)

(k) Sign: Healing of the man born blind (9)

(l) Discourse: Christ is the Light of the World (8:12-59)

(m) Sign: The raising of Lazarus from the dead (11)

(n) Discourse: Christ, the Good Shepherd, will lay down His life for his sheep that he might bring about the resurrection (10:1-18)

v) We will discuss the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000 – which is mentioned in all four Gospels – then John’s discourse on the meaning of this sign

2. Feeding of the 5,000

a) Reading 1 – John 6:1-3

1After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias.

2And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased.

3And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples.

i) Setting is away from any city, JST in Mark describes it as a solitary place

ii) Verse 2 - a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles

(1) The multitude included disciples – converts – but probably was mostly comprised of the curious or those who wanted a healing miracle

b) Reading 2 – John 6:5-13

5¶When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?

6And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do.

7Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.

8One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, saith unto him,

9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?

10And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.

11And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.

13Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

(a) You have a whole bunch of people a long way from any source of food – Verse 10 says 5,000 men. That doesn’t include women and children.

(b) Verse 5 - Christ asks Phillip Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?

(c) Verse 6 – John tells us that, of course, Christ knows how to solve the problem, but he wants Phillip, one of the twelve apostles, to feel the responsibility

(d) Verse 7 – Phillip says this is a big problem – 200 pennies won’t buy enough. A Penny was a Roman Denarius – the standard payment for one day’s work by a common laborer. 200 day’s work won’t buy enough to feed this group.

(e) Verse 9 – Andrew, another apostle, says There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes

(f) Verse 10 – Christ tells his apostles to have everyone sit down. Other gospels says they are organized in ranks of fifty and 100 – orderly

(g) Verse 11 - Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would

(i) Gave thanks

(ii) Gave the food to the disciples (probably apostles, but they may have recruited help)

(iii) The apostles fed the people under the direction of Christ

(h) Verse 12 - When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost

(i) Divine economy

(ii) Bread and fish had been created by miraculous means and Christ had the power to create more, but this food was not to be wasted.

ii) This is a miracle and sign on a huge scale

(1) Other miracles were witnessed by only a few people

(a) Healing

(2) Skeptics might point to alternative explanations for some miracles

(a) The person might not really have been sick

(b) Water into wine – substituted bottles

(3) Elements of this miracle

(a) In the wilderness – no source of food around

(b) Impossible to hide this much food in your pocket or under your robe

(c) Many could testify of the miracle – 5,000 men, possibly 10,000, including women and children

(i) This miracle was not witnessed by the 5,000, it was experienced

(ii) Each person ate the bread and fish

3. The Bread of Life

a) Question – Why would Christ make such an enormous miracle?

b) Remember John’s pattern – a sign is accompanied by a discourse

i) The simple answer is that an enormous sign is tied to a very significant discourse.

c) Parallel

i) Elements of this miracle

(1) Wilderness

(2) No food

(3) Food appears miraculously

(4) Enough food for everyone to eat until they were filled

ii) ASK – What event in Jewish history would come to the mind of every Jew who heard about this miracle?

(1) Manna

(2) Jewish tradition said the Messiah would bring manna

iii) As we consider the discourse, we will see that Christ used one of the greatest miracles in Jewish history to teach some serious doctrine

d) The Bread of Life

i) After the feeding of the 5,000, Christ’s apostles were weary so he told them to get on a boat and cross the Sea of Galilee

(1) This is the night of the storm when Christ walked on the water

ii) The next day, the multitude that ate of the bread and fish finds the Savior again in Capernaum, on the other side of the Sea of Galilee

iii) Reading 3 - John 6:24-26

24When the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus.

25And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither?

26Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.

(a) Verse 26 – Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.

(b) Savior seems disappointed at their motivation and teaches them what the real importance of the sign is

(i) Much of his teaching here is in a dialogue with members of the crowd

iv) Reading 4 – John 6:27-33

27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.

28Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?

29 Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

30They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?

31 Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.

32Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.

33For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

(a) Verse 27 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life

(i) How much effort to we put into obtaining things that perish compared to those that endureth unto everlasting life?

(ii) We have to labor for everlasting life

(b) Verse 27 which the Son of man shall give unto you

(i) Christ is the only place to receive enduring “meat”

(ii) Atonement – Even though we “labor” we can’t labor hard enough to receive everlasting life

(c) Verse 27 - for him hath God the Father sealed

(i) One of the major principles Christ teaches in this sermon is His relationship to Heavenly Father

(d) Verse 29 – Answering the question “What labor are we supposed to do if we want to do the works of god” Christ answers This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent

(i) First job is to believe – includes acceptance of the Gospel of Christ and living of commandments

(ii) Another reference to Christ’s relationship with God – Christ is the one whom God has sent.

(e) Verse 30 – A question to Christ - What sign shewest thou

(i) Remember John refers to miracles as signs – a miracle is a sign pointing to Christ and something important about Christ’s doctrine

(ii) Christ had just fed 5,000 in the wilderness and the people want more of a sign

(f) Verse 31 – The question continues - Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat

(i) The Jews make the connection between manna and Christ’s physical bread

(g) Verse 32 – Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.

(i) Christ reminds them that Moses was not the source of manna

(ii) my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven

1. God is the source of manna

2. Today, God is giving you “the true bread from heaven”, something much more important than manna

(h) Verse 33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

(i) What is the real, the most important bread of God?

(ii) Christ who is sent by God in heaven

(iii) Christ – this bread - giveth life unto the world

1. Not just physical sustenance like manna

2. Life is given not just to Jews, but to everyone in the world

v) Reading 5 – John 6:34-40

34Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.

35And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

36 But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.

37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.

39 And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.

40And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

(a) Christ teaches some serious doctrine – doctrine that requires the Holy Ghost to understand

(b) Verse 34 – Request from the people - Lord, evermore give us this bread

(i) Question implies that the bread Christ has been talking about is separate from him

(ii) Reasonable since they’re still thinking in manna terms – manna was separate

(c) Verse 35 - Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst

(i) I am the bread of life

1. It’s Christ, not manna

(ii) he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst

1. He’s teaching by analogy – hunger and thirst

2. Also explaining that eating the bread of life is different than eating bread – cometh unto me and believeth on me

(d) Verse 36 - But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not

(i) Even when the bread of life is standing in front of you, you’re still not understanding. You have to have faith in Christ and believe what He teaches

(e) Verse 37 - All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out

(i) A couple of meanings

1. True followers of Christ will self-select by coming to Him

2. Atonement – Since resurrection is universal and is brought about by the Atonement, all people who have ever lived on the earth will rise from their graves and come to Christ to be judged

3. Whoever comes to Christ to follow Him will not be cast out + resurrection will be universal.

(f) Verse 38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me

(i) I wonder how someone can read John and believe in the apostate doctrine of the trinity

(ii) Christ is the perfect servant of Heavenly Father

(g) Verse 39 And this is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day

(i) Moses 1:39 - For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.

(ii) Again, this scripture is on two levels

1. Immortality – universal resurrection

2. Eternal Life – Depending upon our obedience, we will lose nothing and gain everything when we go back to Heavenly Father

(h) Verse 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day

(i) this is the will of him that sent me – a clear statement that Christ was doing God’s will

(ii) Qualifications for everlasting life

1. every one which seeth the Son,

2. and believeth on him,

3. may have everlasting life

ii) This was hard doctrine for some who listened to Christ and they murmured

iii) Reading 6 – John 6:43-51

(a) 43 Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves.

(i) 44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

(ii) 45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.

(iii) 46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.

(iv) 47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.

(v) 48 I am that bread of life.

(vi) 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead.

(vii) 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.

(viii) 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

(ix) Verse 44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day

1. Provides more information about the relationship of God and Christ

2. No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him

a. Once more affirms that God has sent Him and Christ is His servant

b. JST for John 6:44 - No man can come unto me, except he doeth the will of my Father who hath sent me. And this is the will of him who hath sent me, that ye receive the Son; for the Father beareth record of him; and he who receiveth the testimony, and doeth the will of him who sent me, I will raise up in the resurrection of the just.

c. God is drawing men to Christ – God and Christ are completely unified in the work of salvation and exaltation and, while scrupulously honoring agency

d. Footnote 44c has some interesting citations that provide interesting context for ways that this drawing unto Christ takes place

(x) Verse 45 - And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.

1. Again, God the Father directs men and women to Christ because God has designated Christ as the means of salvation through His Atonement

(xi) Verse 46 - 46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.

1. A different way of saying that, after entering mortality only those whom Christ brings to Heavenly Father will ever see Him again.

2. Christ is the only way to God – through His Atonement, Christ makes us “of God” or Godly

(xii) Verse 47 - He that believeth on me hath everlasting life

1. Reiterates that having faith in Christ is the only path to eternal life

(xiii) Verse 48 - I am that bread of life

1. Brings his sermon back to bread

2. Christ is the bread, the nourishment, the sustaining influence that allows us to have both immortality – living forever – and eternal life – the kind of life God lives

3. Without Christ, we spiritually starve

(xiv) Verse 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead

1. A stark statement to those who still hold to the law of Moses and will not accept Christ – you are dead spiritually and will not be resurrected to eternal life.

2. Manna sustained ancient Israel physically, but manna could not bring them eternal life.

3. Manna’s purpose was to preserve the children of Israel so Israel could survive temporally until Christ could come to give them the bread of life.

4. Like all of the experiences and laws of ancient Israel, the purpose of manna was to point the people to the bread of life – Christ.

(xv) Verse 50-51 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.

1. 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world -

2. Speaking of Himself - This is the bread which cometh down from heaven

a. Christ has been sent from God who is in Heaven

3. that a man may eat thereof, and not die – immortality and eternal life

4. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever

a. Reiteration of his main point

b. Christ is the Messiah

5. the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world

a. This is the Atonement

b. Christ will die on the cross – sacrifice his own flesh – in order to save the world and every man and woman who has ever lived on it.

iv) We will skip some even more vivid metaphors about the commitment we need to have for Christ and what He commits to us in return.

v) Reading 7 – John 6:60-68

60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?

61When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?

62 What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?

63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

64 But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.

65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.

66 ¶From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

(i) Verse 60 Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it

1. This is not easy doctrine for anyone

2. Christ is laying out how great His sacrifice is for us and, in turn, describing how hard we must hold to Him

3. In our day, Catholicism and Protestantism are easier than this

(ii) Verses 61-62 - he said unto them, Doth this offend you?

62 What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before?

1. If you can’t handle this, it won’t do you any good to know of my death and resurrection

(iii) Verse 63 - It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

1. You can only understand and accept these teachings if you are willing to allow the Holy Ghost to witness of their truthfulness unto you.

2. The law of Moses won’t explain this.

(iv) Verses 62 and 64 refer forward to Christ’s atonement – his betrayal by Judas and his death and resurrection. Christ knows what is coming.

(v) Verse 65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.

1. Back to JST 6:44 - No man can come unto me, except he doeth the will of my Father who hath sent me.

(vi) Verse 66 - 66 ¶From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

1. Many are called, but few are chosen

(vii) Verses 67-68 - 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

(i) 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life

2) Reading 8 - Elder Neal A. Maxwell has written: "The lessons of history concerning faith are deeply relevant to the present. For instance, some of His early disciples found Christ's claim as to His unique role too much. They "walked no more with [Jesus]", when their little faith in Him failed. These fair-weather friends had just eaten hungrily of the miraculous loaves, but still they rejected Jesus' declarations of His divinity as the Bread of Life! Once again, experiencing miracles is no substitute for nurturing daily faith." (Lord, Increase Our Faith, p5)

3) Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath and declares himself the Son of God.

a) Reading 9 – John 5:1-9

1After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

2Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.

3In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water.

4For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.

5And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.

6When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?

7The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

8Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.

9And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.

i) Long illnesses

(1) The woman with the issue of blood had been afflicted for 12 years (Mark 5:25). Another woman had been bowed by an infirmity for eighteen years (Luke 13:11)

(2) This man afflicted for 38 years.

(3) Some have been burdened by sins, by spiritual diseases, for so great a time that they begin to lose hope of escape as did the man by the pool. Then, suddenly, without solicitation, the Savior came and he was made clean and whole. Surely the Savior will do the same for all those who build faith and wait patiently for His help and assistance. This must be part of the lesson the Savior taught when he later found the man who was healed. He said to him, “Thou art made whole; sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.” There is something worse than being infirm for 38 years, and it has something to do with sin.

b) Reading 10 – John 5:19-23, 30

19Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.

20For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.

21For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.

22For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:

23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

SKIP

30I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.

Conclusion