John Devotional | Week 4 | Oct 3-7

Read John 2:1-11. In this passage we see the first of Jesus’ “signs” which will occur throughout John’s gospel. Today we’ll think through how the story begins. 

• Setting: Where does this story take place (location & event), and who is present? 
  • Based on what we know from John 1, who are Jesus’ disciples at this time?
  • How long have these disciples known Jesus? (2:1)
• Conflict: What ‘conflict’ sets the events of this chapter in motion? What problem needs to be solved? 
  • What do you learn about Jesus and about his mother as they discuss what should be done?

Pray today in reflection and confession. Do you, like Mary, turn to Jesus and obey his commands when problems arise? Do you believe Jesus is interested and able to engage with everyday issues?

Read John 2:1-11. Review your notes from yesterday regarding the setting and conflict, and then focus on how the story develops and resolves.

• Rising Action:  List the events which occur after Mary tells the servants to do what Jesus tells them.
• Climax:  What ‘declaration’ is made at the climax of this story? How does the “master” contrast the earlier wine vs. the wine that Jesus provides?
• Resolution: What two things happen as a result of the events in this story? 

Pray today in adoration.  Jesus’ engagement in this everyday situation improves and transforms the outcome. He provides the ‘better wine’, and in doing so, manifests his glory (v 11).  Is this your understanding of Jesus? 

Read John 2:1-11 again, and then think through the Old Testament texts which pointed forward to this event. 

• What is significant about the jars which were filled with water in John 2?  How are they described?
• What is the significance of wine in Old Testament prophecies? What does “new wine” seem to symbolize?
  • Isaiah 25:6-9
  • Jeremiah 31:10-14
  • Joel 3:17-18
• With this information in mind, what do you think John is suggesting as he specifically points out that Jesus turns water (which is held in jars used for Jewish ceremonial washing) into wine? 

Jesus has come to usher in God’s kingdom which will be marked by overwhelming abundance!  Pray in supplication for the patience to wait and hope for God’s kingdom in the midst of your painful situations today.

Read John 2:1-11 again, and then think through what this event foreshadows. 

• Read Ephesians 5:25-33  
  • How is the relationship between Jesus and his church described?
  • What are all the things that Jesus does for his “bride” according to this passage? 

• Read Revelation 19:6-10
  • What “event” occurs when Jesus returns in glory? 
  • Who is called “blessed” in this text? 
    • Does this invitation include you? How do you know?

Pray today in adoration. If you have put your trust in Jesus, you are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb!  You are cleansed by his word; without spot or wrinkle.  You have been made holy, without blemish!

Read John 2:1-11 again. 

• Reflect: What have you learned as you have read and studied this text throughout the week? 
• The events in this story caused his disciples – Andrew (1:40), Simon Peter (1:42), Philip (1:43) and Nathanael (1:45) – to believe in Jesus (2:11).
  • Who are you praying for, to believe in Jesus?

Pray today in supplication, for those in your life who do not yet believe.  Ask Jesus to reveal his glory to them.