These profound words are often quoted, and key to our faith. But what do we know about them? Do we know the who, what, why, when, and where they were spoken? These questions can be the building blocks to your Biblical studies and are easy to apply to any verse or passage you read. But, to dig deeper, let's use Bible Gateway Plus to answer these questions. With over $3,100 worth of Bible study tools, including over 60 trusted resources, we'll get a picture of what was happening when Jesus said these words. |
First, who was Jesus speaking to? |
This might be one of the more straightforward questions to answer as you back up and read the verse in context. All that means is that you go back and read the entirety of John 8, where you find that Jesus had gone to the Mount of Olives (verse 1), and the scribes and Pharisees brought him a woman caught in adultery (verse 3). And look at that, we just answered both the 'who' and 'where' questions above. 😉 |
Second, who were the Pharisees? Why were they important? |
Yes, we answered the question about who Jesus was speaking to, but do you really know who the Pharisees were and why they were important at that time? To answer that question, Bible Gateway Plus has the perfect resource. The New International Encyclopedia of Bible Characters has an insightful article that goes into why this was important. It says that they are "one of three Jewish sects described by the 1st-century Jewish historian Josephus (along with the Sadducees and Essenes). Probably no more than 5–10% of all Jews belonged to this group, which was a cross between a political party and a religious faction. The name probably means 'separatists', and it was applied to a movement which grew out of the Maccabean era composed of religious leaders and students of the Law…" |
When did Jesus speak these words? |
It isn't easy to tell from the Bible text exactly when he spoke these words. Chapter 8 starts by mentioning that it was early morning in verse 2, but between verses 11 and 12 people left and came back. The abridged Expositor's Bible Commentary gives us additional insight around more than the time of the day. It says, "It may have been shortly after the close of the Feast of Tabernacles, while Jesus was still in the city. His claim to be the "light" of the world is the second of the great "I am's" of Jesus (see comment on 6:34-36) and recalls 1:4-5. Perhaps Jesus drew his illustration from the Menorah that burned during the Feast." |
Lastly, what is the significance of Jesus saying "I am the light of the world?" |
The Expositor's Bible Commentary helps with this answer as well, and the paragraph continues, "Jesus professes to be not only the inexhaustible source of spiritual nourishment but also the genuine light by which truth and falsehood can be distinguished and by which direction can be established." |
Learning about Scripture is easy with Bible Gateway Plus |
As you can see, Bible Gateway Plus is invaluable for learning more about the Bible. With access to 60+ resources by beloved pastors and trusted theologians, you'll have a study library with you wherever you go. Worth over $3,100, you have access to: ✓ 30 Study Bibles (valued at $600) ✓ 13+ Commentaries (valued over $2,050) ✓ 6 Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Bible Studies (over $350 in value!) ✓ Maps, Devotionals, and more (another $100 in value!) Each resource is tied to the book chapter verse you read online, and you'll be able to answer all your questions! We are grateful for Jesus, the Light of the world, who guides us out of darkness. We pray that Bible Gateway Plus helps strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding of the Bible. Start your free trial today and get our best deal in digital Bible study. Save 20% on monthly or yearly plans. Pay as low as $3.33/month when you choose yearly (that's as low as 11 cents per day!) |
Not quite ready to dig deeper? Try the Bible Audio App! |
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When your hands are busy, but your mind is free, make a point to listen to God's voice. Choose a narration you'll enjoy from single voice to dramatized editions, and then use the following features. √ Set verses or chapters to repeat. √ Speed up or slow down how quickly the Scripture is read. √ Set a timer and build time for the Bible into your daily schedule. The Bible Audio app is a great way to embrace daily Bible reading as you begin to make the Bible a central part of your day. |
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Thank you for using Bible Gateway to read and study the Bible! If you have any questions, please contact us at support@biblegateway.com.
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*The 20% off promotion is valid through December 9, 2024. All prices are USD. Additional sales tax may apply. The 14-day free trial is available to new subscribers only. All prices are USD. Additional sales tax may apply. The free download will be sent via email when you're new membership is active. This email was sent to ovemn0.love@blogger.com by 501 Nelson Place, Nashville, TN 37214, USA. If you have questions or comments about this email, please contact us. Manage all Bible Gateway communication | Opt Out of all Bible Gateway communication VIEW THIS EMAIL IN YOUR BROWSER ► |
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