8:30-31 The Seed of Abraham and the Identity of the Father – Some have argued that those Jews that believed v.13-29 are less hostile than those of v.31-59. More likely is that this repetition indicates a passage of time.
Introduction: As we discussed on the last handout, the actions of v. 12 and following are the continuation of ch.
Introduction: For the next section, Jesus does not speak again until 8:7. 7:40-52 describes the confusion and conflict between the crowd, the Pharisees, and the Sanhedrin.
Introduction: Jesus among the pilgrims – Jesus remains at the Feast of Tabernacles, with responses from various groups about the pronouncements He made concerning himself and the growing hostility (v.28ff, v.27ff). This is not a discussion, it is Jesus asserting Himself as the one sent by the Father, a warning to repent, and as the one who fulfills the Feast of Tabernacles.
v.14 Jesus teaches in the Temple – Jesus does not appear at the feast until it is halfway over, that is, the fourth day. Yet, He comes to the temple not to manifest His power/glory but rather “to teach.” This is significant, as “teaching” is used sparingly in John (6:59; 8:20).
Chapter 7-10 – Who is Jesus? – The transition is from Jesus’ activity in Galilee to His activity in Judea, which will end with His death and resurrection.
6:59-62 “This teaching is offensive” – The note about the synagogue reminds us that Jesus is explaining the Torah. This discourse is a sermon expounding the OT texts.
6:52 “How can this Man give us His flesh to eat” – We should not underestimate the scandal of Jesus’ words, as they quarrel angrily with one another. Their words echo the complaint of those in the wilderness (see Psalm 78:19-20).
6:41-42 The Jews grumble at the words of Jesus – Again, the Exodus narrative is in the background. The repeated disgruntled murmuring against God is as constant as the Exodus itself (Ex 15:24; 16:2,7-8, 9, 12; 17:3) and repeated elsewhere (e.g.
6:32-33 “Jesus interprets the Scriptures” – Remember that Jesus called the Scriptures (5:39) and Moses (5:45-47) as witnesses to who He is. Jesus is the center and content of the Scriptures, i.e.
