SWHW Two Year Bible Reading Plan: March, Year 2Sample

Top Takeaway from Somer Phoebus:

John is one of the most profound writers in Scripture and certainly of the Gospels. He proves this by opening up the book of John with a lot of words that seem to circle around each other. They've been confusing for many readers in the past. 

He writes: 

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:1-5

As you read through John, you’ll notice he has an agenda (not a personal agenda, but a God ordained agenda) and that is to get you to understand the doctrine of the Trinity. But even more, John wants you to know in your heart of hearts that Jesus IS God and God IS Jesus. 

To know this is to know one of the most fundamental truths of your Christian faith. It is impossible to say you believe in God and not believe in Jesus. And it is impossible to believe a man named Jesus came to earth to live a sinless life, defeat death and the grave, and not believe that He did that because His Father, God, sent Him to do so. 

In the book of John, you’ll see why he has to remind us often that Jesus is God. Because despite the miracles and His undeniable knowledge of God, when Jesus shows up on the scene, He’s nothing like what you would expect the Son of God to be. Even as He gains popularity, that doesn't change. 

A normal man, a carpenter, traveling mostly by foot and with a quiet authority rather than a dynamic personality, enters. 

And chosen to prepare the people for Him, the very MESSIANIC KING, is another normal-ish guy Scripture describes as a nature-loving, rough around the edges, good ol’ boy.

That can’t be right; right? 

Oh, but it is. 

A kind and quiet carpenter and an offbeat wilderness man got the party started. Literally, Jesus' first miracle takes place at a wedding reception. (Ch. 2) From there, word traveled fast and people began to believe. 

Here’s what I’m taking away from John 1-3 today: 

1. Evangelism was first modeled for us in a beautifully organic way and mostly by word of mouth. I should be having more gospel conversations.  

2. God can use anyone to evangelize the lost. Fancy, popular, or charismatic people do not have an upper hand. Sharing the gospel is not exclusively for Bible teachers and preachers. 

3. Jesus is God and God is Jesus, and I don’t have to understand it; I just have to believe it. Theology matters. 

Father, thank You for Your Word. I learn so much every time I read it. Thank You for the insight You’ve given us to the life of Jesus. I pray You will help me to be bold about sharing You with everyone I come in contact with. I love You, God. Amen.