A Philosophical Prologue of the Book of John - Research Paper Example

? Exegesis of John 13 17 due: Introduction This paper gives a critical explanation of John 13-1:17. The book of John is the fourth gospel after Mathew, Mark and Luke in the New Testament; its author is the disciple whom Jesus loved, John. This book begins by explaining events before the creation “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made” John 1- 1:3 (New King James Version) This book stands apart from other gospels. This is because the gospel of John opens a prologue in which Jesus Christ is described as the “word of life”. This book is organized around seven signs or miracles that point to Jesus as the Son of God. This gospel also reproduces a number of long conversations that Jesus had with people in which he revealed whom he was and, what God had sent him to do. This paper aims to analyze and interpret this biblical verse in a broader, clearer perspective. The scripture to be analyzed is as shown below: 13 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.2 And supper being ended, the devil having already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray Him,3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God,4 rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded. 6 Then He came to Simon Peter. And Peter said to Him, “Lord, are You washing my feet?”7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this.”8 Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!”Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!”10 Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” 11 For He knew who would betray Him; therefore He said, “You are not all clean.”12 So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them (New King James Version). The research method done in this study was qualitative research; whereby collection, analysis, and interpretation of the data collected was done. This research method fell under the sub classification of a case study. This is because John 13- 1:17 is an exploratory and open-ended case. I also used biblical interpretation from various theological professionals in relation to this scripture so that I could gain a comprehensive picture of the data. The main literature used was the Bible. Interpretation from theological professionals and bible scholars was not limited. The intention of making this research exploratory was to gain more information. First and foremost, the section to be analyzed required professional assistance; being a historical case. Interpretation of the scripture is inclusive of expertise assistance. This is because the bible contains various literary techniques. Interpreting the literature without assistance from a knowledgeable person would only lead to the surface rather than in-depth information (Hayes et al, 28). The primary themes of John 13- 1:17 include humility, betrayal, forgiveness, departure, denial, self- sacrificing love, devotion, equity, and return to the father. These themes are evident from the actions of Jesus; the theme of humility was evident when he washed the feet of his disciples. Judas a disciple of Jesus exhibited the theme of betrayal. The text to exegete contains dialogue and sermons as the literature used. The sermon given by Jesus after the feet washing explained why he devotedly performed the act. Dialogue is evident between Simon Peter and Jesus: “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.” (New King James Version, John 13:1-17). This writing serves as encouraging affirmative words to the readers. Symbolism, figurative language, and metaphors are used in this work. John 13- 1:17 present an underlying theme essential to the present period. Washing of the feet of his disciples is the central area under scrutiny. This paper will critically evaluate the following questions: Why did Jesus wash the feet of his disciples? Why did Simon Peter at first reject the service? According to the behavior and actions of Jesus, what can be learned? From this scripture, what can we amplify in our day to lives? Exegesis The book of John is a philosophical/theological Prologue, and a practical Epilogue. John's Gospel is not structured chronologically but theologically. The text under exegesis is found in the Holy Bible, New Testament, and the gospel of John. Chapter 13 starts the final Passion Week. This is the only book on the foot washing topic; making it unique from the three gospels. John 13- 1:17 is found when Jesus washes the feet of His disciples. The historical context of John 13 is evident in Luke 22:24; whereby the disciples were still arguing over who was the greatest. The historical setting was the late first century, and particular historical occasion of this Biblical text took place before Passover “Now before the Feast of the Passover” (New King James Version, John 13:1). Passover refers to a celebration of the period God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt (New King James Version, Exodus 12. 1-27; Numbers 27. 16-25). The physical setting of chapter 13 is an upper room in Jerusalem on the way to Gethsemane, the night Jesus was betrayed by Judas (Chatelion 241). Identification of the literary units used in the book of John was made possible by analyzing the structure of each literary unit paragraph by paragraph. This aided in the identification of the thoughts John had as well as the purpose of the biblical book. I was able to interpret the original thoughts of John; mainly 13: 1-17, on a paragraph by paragraph basis via the individual units that made up this biblical volume. The modern English translation that was helpful was the New King James Version (NKJV). This translation theory is a word for word literal translation founded on the Greek manuscript called the Texus Receptus. This modern English translation contains paragraph divisions that are longer than the other translations; which aid in the identification of the unified topics. John 13 commences with the love Jesus had for His disciples, “having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end” (New King James Version, John 13:1). This passage relays the theme of love as demonstrated by Jesus. This refers to Jesus' work of redemption for humanity on the cross. He had always had a deep affection for His disciples, and he knew he would love them to the very end. This demonstrates the theme of true and pure love. No matter what he was going to face, even though he knew that one of His disciples would betray Him, He still loved them irrespectively. Love demonstrated by Jesus sets out the picture of the entire text. Jesus knew He would lay down His life for the sake of other human beings including His disciples. The fact that He was willing to do this demonstrates love to the very end where he was crucified. Jesus washed the feet of all disciples including Judas whom he knew would betray Him. The fact that Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet he washed his feet brings out the themes of betrayal and forgiveness. Simon Peter was hesitant about Jesus washing his feet. Peter's question was a rhetorical way of dismissing Jesus' gesture. Peter frequently thought he knew what Jesus should and should not do. This brings out the theme of denial. The Apostles, who lived with Jesus, did not always comprehend His actions and teachings thus, expressing the vertical dualism. Jesus is speaking metaphorically of redemption, when he spoke to Peter “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.” (New King James Version John 13:8). Although Peter’s feet were washed, he needs to continue to repent so as to preserve intimate fellowship. The other contextual probability is that Jesus is narrating of Judas' betrayal (New King James Version, John 13:11). So the metaphor of bathing refers to Peter’s body, and or the apostolic group. There seems to be two distinct purposes in Jesus' act of foot washing: foreshadow His work on our behalf on the cross, and an object lesson concerning humility. Jesus demonstrated a humble act of service by washing the feet of His disciples. By doing so, the theme of humility is brought out. Jesus was so different from other religious leaders of His day. He ate and drank with the general people. Jesus was a public person with the general people. From John 13, we learn that Care and concern for the general person characterizes Jesus as a servant even though he was a leader. John 13 seems to at least cover three purposes demonstrated by the actions of Jesus to reveal God, to model true humanity, and to give His life a ransom for many. Often Jesus' words and acts were for the benefit of the disciples; so that they could set examples for other people. In John 13, Jesus drew attention not only to His submission to the Father, but also to His unique knowledge of the Father. He knew that time had come for him to leave this world, and he was ready to submit according to the will of his father. This verse also reveals His teachings to his disciples after the service act (Wiersbe 17). The Gospel of John continues to emphasize a vertical dualism, above vs. below “Jesus, knowing that God had given all things into His hands and that He had come from God and was going to God “ (New King James Version, John 13:3). Jesus was sent by God, and He was on familiar terms of his return. The Synoptic Gospels describe Jesus as instructing a horizontal dualism of the two Jewish periods, the already and not-yet tension of the Kingdom of God (Klein et al, 57). The bathing of the disciples’ feet by Jesus took place before the Passover. Jesus knew that his hour had come to lay down his life. Passover and the sacrifice of Jesus’ life if keenly evaluated are linked. During the festival of Passover, the Israelites celebrated a new life given to them by God. They were not slaves but free men. During Passover, a lamb was to be sacrificed to God as a sign of thanksgiving. This sacrifice meant that they were cleansed of their sins by God, and they were new individuals. Jesus was to be the lamb that would be sacrificed for the sins of the people. John also places Jesus' demise on the same day the Passover lamb was slain (i.e., "Preparation Day"). Through the action of Jesus’ sacrifice, the lives of people were saved. Jesus was the sacrificial lamb, similar to the Passover sacrificial lamb. This meant that Jesus would pass over from this world and return to His father, “Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father” (New King James Version, John 13:1). This section brings out the theme of departure. Jesus knew that he would depart from this world and return to where He had come from. This also triggers the theme of return to the father. This coupling follows the Old Testament terms hesed (covenant love and loyalty) and emeth (trustworthiness); describing the character of Jesus. Matthew and Luke commence with Jesus' birth, Mark commences with His baptism, but John is set in motion before the creation. John develops his Gospel in light of the fundamental affirmations of the other Gospels. He tries to supplement and explain the life and teachings of Jesus in light of the needs of the early church. Although it is true that John's main aim is theological, his use of history and geography is precise and detailed. The obvious difference between John and the Synoptics according to George Eldon Ladd (1994) from A Theology of the New Testament on the differences quotes: "The Fourth Gospel is so different from the Synoptics that the question must be honestly faced whether it reports the teachings of Jesus or whether Christian faith has so modified the tradition that history is swallowed up in theological interpretation" (p. 215). It is obviously not the aim of the Synoptic Gospels to give an account of the exact words uttered by Jesus, nor a biography of the occasions of his life. These are representations of Jesus and summaries of his teaching (McDonald 148). Matthew and Luke books are a rearrangement of the material in Mark and to account Jesus' teaching with considerable freedom. John used more liberty than Matthew and Luke as he expressed to give a more profound and ultimately realer representation of Jesus. One of the features of John's Gospel is how the author breaks into the historical event, dialogue, or teaching session with his own comments. Often it is impossible to differentiate between Jesus', other persons', and John's words. The Gospel itself asserts its evangelistic aim for Jewish readers, Gentile readers and incipient Gnostic readers. The purpose statement of John 13:1- 17 may be understood as persuading the doctrine of humility, as well as evangelism because of the steady use of the present tense to describe salvation. John 13:6-10, here Jesus describes His act as an illustration of humility. The Apostles were disputing over who was greatest. In this context, Jesus executes an act of a slave and then clarifies what it means and how to apply it. The "example" that Jesus demonstrated to them was not just humility, but sacrificial service. The Epilogue seems to answer questions of the early church; whereby John supplements the events of the Gospels. However, he centers his attention on the Judean ministry, particularly Jerusalem. The questions covered include Simon Peter's restoration, commencement of betrayal by Judas, and Jesus' delayed return. This book contains literary stylistic techniques such as interviews and dialogues with individuals (disciples in an upper room (New King James Version, John 13:1-17), the Use of "I Am" statements (New King James Version, John 13:13), and sure worship/feast days (Passover). This verse emphasizes the unique exposure of God in Jesus of Nazareth. He is the complete and only divine self-disclosure. To be acquainted with Jesus is to know God. Jesus is the Father's ultimate exposure of Himself. There is no clear comprehension of deity apart from Him. Jesus "sees" the Father and believers "see" the Father via Him (His life, words, and acts). He is the entire and complete revelation of the invisible God (Phillips 416). Conclusion John presents the full deity of Jesus throughout the text under analysis (New King James Version, John 13: 1-17). John develops this gospel in light of the basic affirmations of the Synoptic Gospels. John does not record the Lord's Supper (Eucharist) as do the other gospels. He does give the only detail of the conversation in the Upper Room that night. He tries to compliment and understand the life and facilitation of Jesus in light of the requirements of the early church. The audience was Jewish, and the cultural locale was the rabbinical expectation of the Messiah being super-Moses, primarily in view of the Exodus experiences like "manna." The author intends the audience at that time to develop a personal relationship with Jesus (Tolmie, 38). This is by knowing who He was, His teachings, and His acts. This book was written to reveal Jesus' person and work in magnificent novel ways. The original application or applicants were historically and culturally bonded. This is evident from the celebration of feasts and festivities. John 13 was written before the Feast of the Passover. This Passover meal commemorated Israel's release from Egypt (New King James Version, Exodus 12). The cultures of the original applications were transferrable across time and culture. Across centuries, Christians have adopted to the culture and history of the original applications as commenced by Jesus Christ. This is evident by the current celebrations held by Christians i.e. the Holy Communion which is similar to the last supper. Both festivities are linked to sacrifice to God, as thanksgiving for salvation. The Last supper was commemorated by Jesus Christ; who urged His disciples to do so in remembrance of Him (New King James Version, Matthew 26: 26- 30). The Holy Communion is a service which signifies the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ and the repentance of our sins. A careful analysis of the words uttered by Jesus to His disciples reveals this (New King James Version, John 13:12- 17). Although we are washed of our sins by the blood of Jesus, we are not perfect, and are bound to sin over and over again. Because of our unrighteous nature, we must always be repentant to God so that we can be cleansed once again (Mangan et al, 109). The principles reflected by the text contrast with the current culture. This is because, not everyone who is high and mighty can show the aspect of humility. Not every leader is acts like a servant; instead leaders want to be served not to serve. The principle of humility contrasts with the current culture, encountering a humble leader is so hard; not even a leader but an ordinary individual. Principles taken from the book of John 13 are essential in shaping my life. These principles shape the aspect of love towards one another unconditionally, service to others, equity, and repentance. Principles reflected by the text in John 13 Jesus drew attention not only to His submission to the Father, but also to His unique knowledge of the Father. As a Christian, I should be submissive to authority. Being submissive means that I should abide to the set rules at all times; so as to set a good example to other people. This will therefore, demonstrate a great commendable act as per the biblical principles, drawing the human community to the church. "To love one another" was not a novel commandment, what was up-to-the-minute was that believers were to love each other as Jesus loved them. Love is one facet that the devil cannot counterfeit. Believers are to be distinguished by love. As a Christian, demonstrating the act of love for one another, as well as the broader community will ensure peace and unity within the community. Demonstrating acts of love and kindness toward every living soul is ideal; demonstrating Christianity. Jesus is using prediction in John 13 to encourage belief in Him. Even something as negative as his crucifixion and betrayal reveals His awareness and control of future events. John 13 refers not only to facts (theological truths) about Jesus, but to a personal relationship with Him. Salvation is a message to be believed; a person to be received and obeyed and a life like that person to live. The meaning of salvation is receiving Jesus Christ into our lives as the Lord and Savior. This gives meaning and purpose to life. Life is holy and sacred in the eyes of God, thus by redeeming our souls through the blood of Jesus Christ and acknowledging Him as the one and only true God brings a close relationship to God. In this fragmented world and society, it is ideal to belong to a society like a Christian society so that one can know the correct way to live. Belonging to a society like a church will make one closer to God, learn and know more about God. This will bring a sense of appreciation as well as the modification of one’s life to live as per the requirements of our creator. Belonging to a Christian society will strengthen an individual, especially during this trying period. This will lead to an increase in faith and love towards God. The importance of a society is helping each other not to go astray, and reminding each other of biblical scriptures; helpful for one to make it in this fragmented world and society. Bibliography 1. Chatelion, Counet P. John, a Postmodern Gospel: Introduction to Deconstructive Exegesis Applied to the Fourth Gospel. Leiden: Brill, 2000. Print. 2. Hayes, John H, and Carl R. Holladay. Biblical Exegesis: A Beginner's Handbook. Louisville, Ky: Westminster John Knox Press, 2008. Print. 3. Holy Bible: The New King James Version. Nashville: T. Nelson, 1982. Internet resource. 4. Klein, William W, Craig Blomberg, Robert L. Hubbard, and Kermit A. Ecklebarger.Introduction to Biblical Interpretation. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003. Print. 5. Ladd, George E. A Theology of the New Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans, 1994. Print. 6. Mangan, Louise, Nancy Wyse, and Lori Farr. Living the Christ Life: Rediscovering the Seasons of the Christian Year. Kelowna, B.C: Wood Lake Books, 2001. Print. 7. McDonald, Lee M. Forgotten Scriptures: The Selection and Rejection of Early Religious Writings. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2009. Print. 8. Phillips, John. The John Phillips Commentary Series. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Publications, 2005. Print. 9. Tolmie, D F. Jesus' Farewell to the Disciples: John 13:1-17:26 in Narratological Perspective. Leiden [u.a.: Brill, 1995. Print. 10. Wiersbe, Warren W. Be Transformed: Christ's Triumph Means Your Transformation : Nt Commentary, John 13-21. Colorado Springs, CO: David C Cook, 2009. Internet resource. Read More