The Surprising God

This post exegetes John chapter 14, providing context for the Gospel reading on Pentecost (6/8/25). Insights are drawn from "The Bible Expository Commentary" by Warren Wiersbe, "The New Bible Commentary," "The Parable of Joy" by Michael Card, and "The Gospel of John" by F.F. Bruce. "The Last Supper" by da Vinci (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction Before diving into John chapter 14, let's get some context in chapter 13: 13:36   Simon Peter asked him, "Lord, where are you going?" Jesus replied, "Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later." 37 Peter asked, "Lord, why can't I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you." 38 Then Jesus answered, "Will you really lay down your life for me? I tell you the truth, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!     14:1 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. John 14 ...

This post exegetes Revelation 22:6-21, providing context for one of the RCL readings on the seventh Sunday of Eastertide (6/1/25). Insights are drawn from Grant Osborne ("Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament") and George R. Beasley-Murray ("New Bible Commentary"). "Jesus' Appearing" (public domain via Wikimedia Commons) Introduction The final section of the Revelation serves as the book's concluding epilogue. It contains closing utterances from Jesus, warnings to evildoers, encouragements to the faithful, and sections on the authenticity of the book and the nearness of Jesus’ return. It mirrors the prologue in chapter 1, utilizing imagery that reflects the warnings and promises to the seven churches in chapters 2-3. This reminds us that the immediate context for Revelation is the situation in the seven churches, though we understand it to be relevant in every age, including our own. Authenticating the book  Revelation 22:6-7  6 The ange...