Bible Commentaries
John

Joh

Introduction

“…scriptures are threads of truth going seemingly in many directions, and for awhile it appears to make a visible pattern. However, even with our greatest efforts at concentration, we are incapable of keeping up. Unfortunately, our perception is clouded by our limited understanding. The intricate design, woven together by the Spirit of God using the threads, is so incredibly complex and rich and beautiful that we are humbled in the realization that we know little of nothing (1 Corinthians 13:12). If one had the ability to step back from our limited scope enough to see the entire holy and perfect blanket that scripture becomes, one would view not only the image of Jesus, but Jesus Himself.”

The above verse notes are from “Stephen Harvey’s Notes on the Gospel of John” for John 10:35.

The Apostle John was so close to Jesus that he was permitted to lean his head upon our Lord’s chest as the other disciples, keeping a respectable distance, must have wondered, “What sort of mama’s boy feels comfortable enough to lean against the chest of the Master?” John’s behavior was not affected by the perceptions of others. He wanted to be close to Jesus, and, just as a child, he got as close to the Lord as he wanted to be.

We too can be as close to Jesus as we want to be. Are we willing to let go of our pride and sensibilities? Are we submissive enough to come as a little child and simply seek His presence? If we muster the courage to do what is right despite our fears of rejection, we can approach Him and enjoy the comfort of His embrace.

As John cuddled up to Jesus, he could hear His heartbeat. John had his ear on the heartbeat of God. Imagine your new focus in life, if you too were sensitive to the divine pulse and became aware of what God’s heart is beating for. How would it change you? How different would your approach to life be?

As we get closer and closer to Jesus’ second coming, we need to become more aware of what Jesus said to us than ever before. While the worth of studying any of the books in the Bible cannot be denied, surely there is even greater value in striving to see Jesus through the gospels. Of the four gospels we have, who better to show us a revelation of Jesus than the disciple whom Jesus loved? Who better to reveal to us God’s love than the man who heard God’s heartbeat?

So, I studied the Gospel of John to find a greater understanding and appreciation of Jesus. As my studies progressed, I learned a lot, and I grew in Christ. I meditated upon each verse, and I wrote notes as I went along. I also included scriptural cross references that will enhance your study as you look them up in conjunction with the verse in the Gospel of John you are studying. The actual verses are not included. One will need to have their Bible in hand and read the verses for themselves. Your effort will be rewarded in incomparable ways.

May our Lord Jesus be with you and anoint your faithful search of His word, through the power and presence of the blessed Holy Spirit. Amen.                                        

                                     Stephen Harvey