The Gospel of John: Come and See the Glorified Christ

Sunday we began studying Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem and the discourses John uses to make his point: follow Jesus, because of his obedient sacrifice. John brings out the different expectations of the people surrounding Jesus. Some wanted relief from Roman oppression by the rightful king of Israel. Some wanted to see the miracle maker and the power of God. Some wanted to follow Jesus, but they clung to the praise of men.

Whatever people wanted from Jesus, he came to accomplish a specific purpose -- the salvation of God’s children. What no one realized is that Jesus was striking the foundation of the kingdom of evil, toppling an evil empire. Jesus says, “Now is the judgment of this world; now will the ruler of this world be cast out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself” (12:31-32). What we discover in the text is that what we want from Jesus is not what we need. We want a righteous government: we need the removal of corruption. We want to see the power of God: we need God. We want freedom: we need freedom from our sin nature.

Jesus came to do something much bigger and better than what we want. This is the wisdom and glory of God. This is why you should follow Jesus! Come Sunday and consider the glory of Jesus.