The Bethesda Fallout


After the healing at Bethesda, Jesus finds himself under fire.    Read: John 5:16-47

  1. The accusation shifts from a Sabbath offense, to one of blasphemy.

    1. Recap the Jewish laws regarding Sabbath.

    2. What is blasphemy and why the accusation?


  2. Jesus uses the attention that his accusers focus on him to launch into a sermon. Summarize in point form, the key messages of the sermon.


  3. Why does the topic transition from healing to life?


  4. Jesus makes several remarkable statements, recorded in John, including v 25. How do you understand the passage: "the dead will hear"?


  5. Jesus speaks of motivation in v 30. What is implied in this statement? Relate it to v 19.


  6. Why do you think that Jesus launches into the discussion on witness vv 31-37?


  7. Why does Jesus appeal to Moses vv 38-47?


  8. Jesus, who is often portrayed as a gentle, loving, peaceful type, however he is being quite direct, quite sharp in this passage. Discuss the misconceptions of Jesus within popular culture. How do these myths of popular culture prevail within denominational boundaries?




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