John 12-part 2

Last night I didn't have the chance to write too much about chapter 12 because there is SO much that happens in this chapter and I really didn't want to miss anything! I'm going to begin with verse 20 tonight and go to the end of the chapter(hopefully). Jesus begins speaking and explains that he will soon die. He uses a parable to explain to his followers about the events that would come to pass in the near future. He uses an analogy of a kernel of wheat falling to the ground. If that kernel doesn't fall to the ground and die, it won't produce any more seeds. It has to sacrifice itself first. Jesus was attempting to explain to his disciple that he would soon be sacrificing himself so that many seeds could be planted and when the harvest was ripe for picking, it would be picked. Metaphorically speaking, Jesus was the kernel, his followers planted the seeds and the harvest were the people who changed their lives around and devoted them to God.

Jesus then makes the point that anyone who loves their own life will lose it, but one who hates it will inherit the kingdom of heaven. Now I don't think Jesus wants us to actually hate ourselves or our lives, but what he means is that we shouldn't out ourselves first in anything we do. We aren't here to live for ourselves, our children or our spouses. We are here to live for God. Our one and only purpose here on earth is to bring others closer to him. So to put it in a better way, we need to STOP BEING SO SELFISH! The world doesn't revolve around us. This isn't "Brooke's magical land of fairies and pixie dust!" This is real life and every minute we spend not telling others about Jesus is a minute closer that the get to hell. I have missed a chance before to witness to someone. I kept trying to argue with God. I ran into this man about 3-4 times that day at the store, so God gave me extra chances. I didn't take them. Now I have no idea where that man is. I can only hope and pray that someone shared the gospel with him.

Symbolism also plays a big part in this chapter of John. Jesus uses the symbol of light in different ways throughout the entirety of the bible. It usually always represents something good. In this instance, Jesus is the light. He says he came into this world to bring the light so that people could be saved and not walk in darkness. Verse 47 says, "IF ANYONE HEARS MY Words BUT DOES NOT keep them, I will not judge that person. For I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world." Now I know some of you are like really? He did not come to condemn people then why did he come at all all? He came because he is our intercessor. He pleaded on our behalf. Not only did he die for each and every one of us, but he still has to plead to his father on our behalf. I'm not too sure about you, but I wouldn't beg for anyone if they didn't do the changing afterwards. Instead, Jesus forgives us each time. As difficult as it is to forgive someone, it is necessary because of Jesus forgiving us. I hope you have enjoyed this. I'm praying for each one of you.