In the second of this four-chapter farewell discourse, we find Jesus being the exclusive speaker. Jesus addresses two primary topics: disciple from being connected to the father, and tension with the world. Both sections have to deal with the disciples association with Jesus in particular – Jesus continues to recognize the importance of preparing the disciples for what is to come.
15:1-17
In John 2, we experienced Jesus being a source of life and celebration for the family in Cana (in his provision of the wine). It is interesting then, that the author chooses to continue this concept when referring to the metaphoric plant that Jesus ' students are attached to. His students are part of a plant that brings about the same kind …show more content…
They are entirely dedicated to Jesus ' monologue, and consist of both instruction to his friends, as well as a prayer for them. Amidst the many things that Jesus says, it is important that we do not forget that these moments are the final ones before he will be taken from them, arrested, and crucified. At this point, I believe that most people, if they were to be faced with the scenario that Jesus is, would start turning inwards. Their thoughts would be almost entirely directed to their own survival. Yet, with Jesus, we find a man considerably concerned for the well-fare and health of his friends, as he goes through this humiliating process. The psychological effect of watching your teacher, whom you believe to be the authorized Son of God, publically stripped naked after a midnight trial, beaten, and killed via capital punishment – that is not really something that bodes well for the group of Galilean disciples learning from him. Jesus, showing an absurd level of humility and selflessness, consoles and builds his friends up during these final moments. It is truly inspiring and challenging – revealing Jesus ' character in …show more content…
While giving the account of Jesus before Annas (18:12-24), and then the account before Pilate (18:28-40), the text omits what occurs while Jesus is in Caiaphas’ own home (18:24, 28). As if Annas’ house was a common place for people to hang out in the dead of night, Peter and the beloved disciple are confronted with quite a crowd just waiting around…in the dead of night. If this is not shady enough for you, then consider the role of Malchus’ relative (18:26). For such a person to be present further indicates just how much of a set-up this trial