The Surprising God

This post exegetes Revelation chapter seven, providing context for the RCL Gospel reading on the fourth Sunday of Eastertide (5/11/25). Insights are drawn from Grant Osborne ("Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament") and George R. Beasley-Murray ("New Bible Commentary"). "John's Vision of Heaven" by Ottheinrich (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction In coming to the seventh chapter of Revelation we are anticipating the opening of the last (seventh) seal. Through these seals, John is given “inside knowledge” concerning the outworking of God’s covenant with humanity (and, indeed, all the cosmos). The rest of the book of Revelation will retrace this seven-step, progressive cycle, adding more detail each time through. But just before and following the opening of the seventh seal, there is an “interlude” during which the saints of God are sealed and the saints and angels join their voices in worshipping God who is sovereign over all. T...

This post exegetes John chapter 21 providing context for the RCL Gospel reading on the third Sunday of Eastertide (5/4/25). Insights are drawn from Warren Wiersbe ("The Bible Expository Commentary"), Donald Guthrie ("The New Bible Commentary"), Michael Card ("The Parable of Joy"), and F.F. Bruce ("The Gospel of John"). "Breakfast with Jesus" source: https://www.debbiegoodwin.net/post/2018/04/17/breakfast-with-jesus Introduction Though the 20th chapter of John reads like the book’s conclusion, chapter 21 serves as an appendix with three purposes: Tell how Peter was restored to Christ’s service (explaining his prominence at the lead apostle).   Refute a prevalent rumor that John would live until Jesus returned.    Teach believers how to relate to their risen Lord. During the 40y days between his resurrection and ascension, Jesus visited with his disciples and prepared them for the coming of the Holy Spirit and their future ministries in h...