1. The Gospel of John provides a great amount of information that will help us to grow as we are instructed in 2 Peter 3:18. 2. In our last lesson we covered the information presented in John 12:1-22. 3. In this lesson we are examining the information recorded in John 12:23-50. Discussion:
I. (John 12:23-26) JESUS SPOKE ABOUT HIS GLORIFICATION
A. (vs.23) The time had arrived for Jesus to be glorified. B. (vs.24) Jesus explained the purpose of His death with an illustration involving wheat. C. (vs.25-26) Jesus showed how the Father will bless those who pay the price to follow and serve Him. II. (John 12:27-28a) WITH A TROUBLED SOUL JESUS PRAYED, ASKING THE FATHER TO GLORIFY HIS NAME III. (John 12:28b-33) A VOICE FROM HEAVEN WAS HEARD
A. (vs.28b) The Father responded to the Lord's request [He also spoke from heaven when Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:17) and when He was transfigured (Matthew 17:5)]. B. (vs.29) The people who heard the voice responded in various ways. 1. Some thought the voice was thunder (Exodus 20:18-19). 2. Others thought an angel spoke. C. (vs.30-33) Jesus explained the purpose for the voice from heaven. IV. (John 12:34-36) JESUS MADE AN APPEAL FOR THE PEOPLE TO BECOME CHILDREN OF LIGHT
A. (vs.34) The people did not understand the purpose for the Lord's death. B. (vs.35-36) As "the light," Jesus would only be with them for a short time. C. Much has been said about Jesus and light in John 1:4-5, 9; 8:12; 9:5. D. The Lord's followers are to "walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8). V. (John 12:37-43) REACTIONS TO THE LORD VARIED
A. (vs.37-41) Some did not believe on the Lord, fulfilling the prophecies in Isaiah 53:1; 6:9-10. B. (vs.42-43) Many of the chief rulers believed on the Lord, but they would not confess Him. VI. (John 12:44-50) JESUS MADE A FINAL APPEAL FOR PEOPLE TO RECEIVE HIM AND HIS WORDS
A. The Father sent Jesus and gave Jesus His words. B. Rejecting Jesus and His words will result in judgment.
