After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. Simon Peter said to...
John 21:1a
posted by DJL
After these things… Earlier, I mentioned in passing that I consider John 20 the “formal conclusion” to John’s Gospel. I describe it this way because John does two things in particular in this chapter that I think are significant. First, John offers readers Thomas’ profound confession...
John 20:30-31
posted by DJL
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. Life. As it turns out. It’s all...
John 20:30
posted by DJL
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. This is only the first half of what I call John’s formal conclusion – there’s another whole chapter coming, but this sure feels like he’s wrapping things up – but I want to tarry here...
Pentecost B: Come Alongside, Holy Spirit!
posted by DJL
Dear Partner in Preaching, I’ve written three or four introductions to this letter now, and none seems quite adequate, so I’ll just come out and say it: I think we’ve misnamed the Holy Spirit. The word Jesus uses in John’s Gospel, as you know, is Paraclete, which we sometimes translate as “Advocate” and often translate as “Comforter.” It’s this second name in particular I’m calling into question, as I just don’t think it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to make us feel better. Yes, I know, it’s not that simple. The Holy Spirit as Comforter eases our distress, encourages us, and comes to us in times of trouble to remind us...