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 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 […]
Water turned to wine–The Uniform Lesson for March 18, 2012
By Sam E. Stone Last week we studied the introduction to the fourth Gospel, the Prologue. John told next how Jesus began his ministry by being baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (John 1:19-34). Then he began choosing his disciples. Andrew and Peter were the first to follow Jesus (vv. 35-42). […]
