Balancing Ministry N' Work

1.      Things are not always what they seem. a.       So far in this chapter the Pharisees thought their plans were failing. b.      They thought the crowds believed in Jesus and that they would not be to arrest Him, let alone have Him killed. c.       With the disciples it looked like Judas was a faithful friend and follower. d.      John’s letter won’t relay the truth of how these events play out for a bit, but we know what happens. e.       We know that the Pharisees get their way. f.       Jesus is handed over to the Romans. g.      He is beaten and then crucified on the cross. h.      We know that Judas is the one who betrays Jesus with a kiss for 30 pieces of silver. 2.      Things are not always what they seem. a.       This is the same in our own lives. b.      We have been told that things are true, that are not and vice versa. c.       We may be questioning why something is not playing out the way we think it should. d.      Lots of things may seem

1.      Lazarus being raised from the dead was the seventh and final sign John had recorded in his letter. 2.      A miracle that showed that Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. a.       A sign that points to the future when Jesus brings all the saints to Him. b.      A physical resurrection that is symbolic of what happens to our souls as we turn to Jesus. c.       Many believed! d.      Some did not. e.       This sign was the final straw. f.       Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin have determined that Jesus must die. 3.      As we pick up in chapter 12, we enter the final days leading to our Saviors death. 4.      John 12:1-2 a.       Jesus returns to Bethany and a dinner is thrown in His honor. b.      Mark tells us that this dinner is being held at Simon the Leper’s home. c.       A time of celebration. 5.      John 12:3 a.       Mary anoints Jesus with a very expensive perfume. b.      Then wiped his feet dry with her hair. c.       She likely gave Je