By Sam E. Stone Early in Jesus’ ministry he reached out to those ignored or snubbed by others. The Samaritans were such a group. Considered “half-breeds,” these were the children of Jews who had intermarried with pagans. Many from the Northern Kingdom were exiled years before, but some remained in the land. They married […]
Temple is cleansed–The Uniform Lesson for April 15
By Sam E. Stone John’s Gospel clarifies the length of Jesus’ earthly ministry. Because he mentions the various Passovers celebrated by our Lord, we are able to determine that his entire ministry was a little over three years. Christ did what was expected of all Jewish men—he came to Jerusalem each year in observance […]
Jesus lives!–The Uniform Lesson for April 8, 2012
By Sam E. Stone Good Friday looked anything but “good” to Jesus’ disciples that day. Saturday was no better. Sunday began with with the same feelings of despair, disappointment, and desperation in the hearts of all his followers. As one of them explained later, “We had hoped that he was the one who was going […]
Jesus testifies to the truth–The Uniform Lesson for April 1, 2012
By Sam E. Stone Instead of continuing chronologically through the Gospel of John, this week we will consider events leading up to the cross. Then on Easter Sunday, we will study the resurrection. Jesus actually underwent not one trial, but three. Two high priests were involved in the trials (Luke 3:2). The three Synoptic […]
Nicodemus learns of new birth–The Uniform Lesson for March 25
By Sam E. Stone Early in his Gospel, John introduces the reader to a Pharisee named Nicodemus. He is mentioned only in John’s Gospel—but here he is seen on three occasions (3:1-10; 7:50-52; l9:39). The Pharisees tried to strictly observe the Law of Moses. Jesus referred to him as “Israel’s teacher” (3:10), suggesting the […]
