Jesus Predicts His Death

John 8:12–30
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Warning

During the Feast of Tabernacles, the women’s court in the temple was lighted by giant lamps with burning wicks made from the priests’ worn-out garments. This reminded the people of how God was with them in the wilderness, guiding them by a pillar of fire by night. In this setting we find Jesus declaring, “I am the light of the world” (v. 12). He said He knew where He came from and where He was going (vv. 13-14). The Pharisees objected to His testimony since according to the law all testimonies must be proven by two witnesses (Deuteronomy 17:6). They did not understand that He had two testimonies: His own and the Father’s. Jesus did not judge anyone, but if He did, He would do it fairly since the Father would help Him (v. 16).

Jesus warned that He would leave them. They would not be able to follow Him, and they would die in their sins (v. 21). Misunderstanding, they thought He was planning to kill Himself (v. 22). Suicide was a terrible thing to a Jew, as they were taught to honor all life. They reasoned that if Jesus committed suicide, He would go to a place of judgment which is why they would not be able to follow Him. Just the opposite was true, however. It was these religious leaders who were going to the place of judgment (vv. 23-24). “Who are you?”, they asked (v. 25). He had given them so much evidence already that He was truly the Son of God, yet they had deliberately rejected the evidence. “I am exactly who I have said I am. Why should I give you more proof, when you have not accepted the witness I have already given?” (vv. 26-27) Many are so taken up with the things of this world that they are blind to all that Christ has to offer.

Jesus made two more claims: He was sent by the Father, and the Father was with Him. He spoke about His own death, saying He would be “lifted up” on the cross (vv. 28-29). Only through His death, burial and resurrection would they be able to see Him for who He really was. Despite widespread rejection, Jesus’s ministry did cause many to put their faith in Him (v. 30).

Application

Salvation is a matter of life or death. People who reject the Savior will die in their sins and be separated from God for all eternity. I need to ask, “what is my attitude toward those who I know are living in their sins?” Many don’t seem to care. Do I care? A bigger question is, what am I doing about warning people about Hell and making sure they know how to go to Heaven?

John 8:12-30 (English Standard Version)

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