The Bible Project Daily Podcast

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comStudy Notes:Existing or Living:  Scripture: John 10:1-21Introduction:Are you living, or are you just existing? Are you living abundantly, living fully, or are you just existing?What is the secret to living a life full of meaning? Where is it found?I believe this question is answered for us in John Chapter 10 vs 1-21.Background:Before we look at today’s text, let’s look at the flow of the Gospel of John up to this point.Chapters 1-4: Everyone who came into contact with Jesus believed in Him.Chapter 5: Unbelief begins to creep in.Chapter 6: Doubts about Jesus being the Messiah and Savior arise.Chapter 7: At the Feast of Tabernacles, there's division among the people.Chapter 8: Leaders try to trap Jesus with the woman caught in adultery; some accuse Him of being demon-possessed.Chapter 9: Jesus heals a blind man, causing further opposition from the leaders.When we open John Chapter 10, Jesus is still in Jerusalem at the end of the Feast of Tabernacles.Jesus tells an allegory with three scenes within one story:Analysis and Application:1. Early Morning Scene (Verses 1-6):Jesus explains that the true shepherd enters by the correct door.The Pharisees are depicted as thieves and robbers harming the sheep.Modern cults and false leaders fit this description, deceiving people and causing harm.True shepherd: knows his sheep, calls them by name, and leads them out.2. Noon Scene (Verses 7-10):Jesus contrasts Himself with thieves and robbers.He is the door; those who enter through Him will be saved.Abundant life involves salvation, freedom, and nourishment:Salvation: Being saved from sin and eternal separation from God.Freedom: Liberation from restrictive religious systems and legalism.Nourishment: Spiritual food that truly satisfies the soul.3. Evening Scene (Verses 11-18):Jesus lays down His life for the sheep, unlike hired hands who abandon them.He knows each of us intimately and cares for our needs.Jesus’ sacrifice enables us to have abundant life.He unites all believers into one flock, knowing us personally and providing for us.Conclusion:In the final verses (19-21), the crowd’s reaction to Jesus is divided. Some see Him as demon-possessed, while others recognize His unique words and deeds.Question for Reflection:Do we dismiss Jesus as mad or demon-possessed, or do we see Him as the Christ? Do we recognize Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comStudy Notes: "Why Were You Born?" (John 9:1-41)IntroductionKey Scripture: John 9:1-41Story Overview:Jesus heals a man born blind.Disciples question if sin caused the man's blindness.Jesus explains that the blindness was so that God's works might be displayed.Part 1: The Incident (John 9:1-12)Jesus encounters a man blind from birth.  Jesus clarifies that the blindness was not due to sin but for God's works to be displayed. Jesus emphasizes His mission as the light of the world.  Jesus heals the man using mud made from saliva and the man washes in the Pool of Siloam and gains sight.InsightsJesus' actions highlight that not all suffering is a result of sin.The purpose of life, according to Jesus, includes manifesting God's works.The physical healing symbolizes spiritual insight and understanding.Part 2: The Investigation (John 9:13-34)The healed man is brought to the Pharisees. They are are divided: some see Jesus as a sinner for breaking the Sabbath, others recognize the miracle. The  man asserts that Jesus is a prophet.  The Pharisees question the man's parents who  confirm their son was born blind but defer to him for details on his healing. The man stands by his testimony, stating he was blind but now sees. He logically argues that Jesus must be from God to perform such a miracle. Pharisees react angrily and expel the man.InsightsThe Pharisees' reaction shows spiritual blindness and prejudice.The healed man's growing understanding of Jesus: from a man, to a prophet, to the Son of God.The narrative contrasts physical blindness with spiritual blindness.Part 3: Spiritual Blindness (John 9:35-41)Jesus finds the expelled man and reveals His identity as the Son of Man. The man believes and worships Jesus.  Jesus' mission includes bringing judgment, revealing spiritual blindness in those who claim to see.  Pharisees' guilt is highlighted by their refusal to acknowledge their blindness.ConclusionPurpose of Life:Manifesting the works of God.Understanding and fulfilling one's purpose through a relationship with Jesus.Do others see the attributes of the Holy Spirit in your life?Discussion QuestionsHow does the healing of the blind man illustrate the purpose of life according to Jesus?How can we overcome spiritual blindness and grow in our understanding of Jesus?In what areas of your life do you need to reflect the fruit of the Holy Spirit more clearly?Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comStudy Notes: Disputing With Jesus (John 8:12-58)IntroductionIn John 8:12-58, Jesus engages in a series of disputes with the Pharisees and Jewish leaders. These confrontations revolve around his identity, his testimony, and his relationship with God the Father. Key VerseJohn 8:12 - "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."Disputes1. The Dispute Over Jesus' Testimony (John 8:13-20)Pharisees' Challenge: "You are appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid."Jesus' Response:His testimony is valid because he knows his origin and destiny.Human standards of judgment are flawed; Jesus' judgments are true and aligned with the Father.The Law requires two witnesses: Jesus himself and the Father.The Pharisees' inability to recognize the Father shows their lack of understanding and belief.2. The Dispute Over Who Jesus Is (John 8:21-30)Jesus' Statement: "I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come."Jesus' Clarification:He is from above; they are from below.Belief in Jesus is essential to avoid dying in sin.The lifting up of the Son of Man will reveal his true identity.Jesus’ consistent message from the Father underscores his divine mission.3. The Dispute Over Whose Children Jesus’ Opponents Are (John 8:31-47)Jesus' Teaching: True disciples continue in his word and know the truth, which sets them free.Jews' Claim: "We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves."Jesus' Rebuttal:Sin makes them slaves; only the Son can set them free.Their desire to kill Jesus shows they are not true children of Abraham.Their actions align with their true father, the devil, not God.Jesus exposes their spiritual blindness and evil motives.4. Jesus’ Claims About Himself (John 8:48-59)Jews' Insult: Accusation of Jesus being a Samaritan and demon-possessed.Jesus' Defence:He honours the Father and does not seek his own glory.Obedience to Jesus’ word grants eternal life.Jews' Outrage: Misunderstand Jesus' claim about never tasting death.Jesus’ Declaration:His glory comes from the Father, whom they do not know.Abraham rejoiced at the prospect of Jesus' coming.Jesus' claim, "Before Abraham was born, I am," asserts his eternal existence and divinity.JewishSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comStudy Notes: Jesus Forgives a Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:1-11)IntroductionTolerance vs. Intolerance: Sharing faith can lead to aggressive reactions, especially from intellectuals questioning Biblical accounts and doctrines.Dilemma: How to respond to challenging questions and accusations about faith?Chapter OverviewContext: Escalating tension and unbelief in John’s Gospel from chapter 7 onwardsSetting: Jesus in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles.Incident with the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11)Interrogation by the Pharisees (John 8:12 onwards, discussed tomorrow)Previous Belief: Initial chapters show universal belief in Jesus (up to chapter 4).Shift in Narrative: Chapters 5 and 6 introduce unbelief.Escalation: Chapter 7 onwards, conflict and hostility increase.Textual Note: John 7:53-8:11 questioned in some manuscripts, but deemed integral.Passage Breakdown1. Jesus at the Mount of Olives (John 8:1-2)Location: Jesus spends the night at the Mount of Olives then returns to the temple to teach, assumes rabbinic authority by sitting.2. The Accusation (John 8:3-6)Woman Caught in Adultery: Brought by scribes and Pharisees.Trap for Jesus: Legal dilemma—stoning per Mosaic law vs. Roman law prohibiting executions.Jesus’ Response: Writes on the ground, symbolically asserting His authority as the lawgiver.3. Jesus’ Challenge (John 8:7-9)Without Sin: Challenges accusers to cast the first stone if they are sinless.Conviction: Accusers leave one by one, beginning with the oldest.4. Jesus’ Forgiveness (John 8:10-11)Question to the Woman: "Where are your accusers?"No Condemnation: Jesus does not condemn her, instructs her to "sin no more."Key TakeawaysJesus’ Authority:Acts as both teacher and divine lawgiver and exercises authority to forgive sins.Grace and Justice:Balances upholding the law with showing grace and demonstrates God's prerogative to forgive.Conviction of Sin:Accusers are convicted of their own sinfulness,  Jesus’ wisdom exposes hypocrisy.Call to Repentance:Jesus forgives but also calls for a changed life and emphasizes repentance and transformation.Reflection QuestionsHow do you handle situations where your faith is challenged?What does Jesus’ response to the woman teach you about grace and justice?How can we balance upholding moral sSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comStudy and Notes Page.IntroductionMain Question: What does it take for a human being to be satisfied?Common Answers: Possessions, power, pleasure.Jesus’ Answer: Found in John 7.1. Before the Feast (John 7:1-13)Location: Jesus in Galilee, avoiding Judea due to threats from Jewish leaders.Feast of Tabernacles: One of the most joyous and popular Jewish feasts.Jesus’ Brothers: Sceptical, urging Him to show His works in Judea.Jesus’ Response: His time has not yet come; He stays in Galilee, then goes to the feast secretly.Public Opinion: Mixed—some call Him good, others a deceiver. Fear of Jewish leaders silences open discussion.2. During the Feast (John 7:14-36)Jesus’ Teaching: Begins halfway through the feast, causing amazement due to His untrained background.Key Teachings:His teaching is from God.True understanding comes from doing God's will.A true teacher seeks God's glory, not personal honour.Accusations and Défense:Jesus accuses the leaders of hypocrisy regarding the law and His Sabbath healing.He defends His actions by comparing them to the practice of circumcision on the Sabbath.Reaction: Division among people—some believe, others doubt or reject Him.3. On the Last Day of the Feast (John 7:37-53)Significance of the Last Day: Ceremonial water pouring symbolizes God's provision.Jesus’ Proclamation:Offers "living water" to those who believe, signifying the Holy Spirit.True satisfaction comes from within, through Him.Public Response:Mixed reactions: Some recognize Him as the Prophet or Messiah, others doubt due to His Galilean origin.Division intensifies: Some want to seize Him, but no one does.Pharisees’ Reaction: Disdain and rejection of Jesus' teachings and the people’s belief in Him.Nicodemus’ Defense: Calls for a fair hearing, but is scorned by other leaders.Conclusion: Ongoing division and isolation.Key TakeawaysTrue Satisfaction:External possessions, power, and pleasure are temporary and insufficient.True satisfaction comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ and receiving the Holy Spirit.Jesus offers an eternal, overflowing source of life and fulfilment.Division:Jesus' presence and claims cause division among people.Some believe and find fulfilment, others reject and remain spiritually empty.This division persists today, reflecting the Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comPodcast Episode Study and Notes Page.Welcome back to are second part as we continue our exploration of John 6, going deeper into the themes of freewill and divine election. In this part of the chapter, we see Jesus engage with different groups, shedding light on why some people believe and others do not.Overview of the DiscoursesFrom verse 22 to the end of the chapter, Jesus speaks in four distinct discourses:To the Multitude (verses 22-40)To the Jewish Leaders (verses 41-59)To the Disciples (verses 60-66)To the Twelve Apostles (verses 67-71)Each discourse reveals insights into the relationship between divine election and human free will. Let's dive into these passages and uncover why some did not believe.First Discourse: Speaking to the MultitudeVerses 25-40Jesus addresses their materialistic motivations, urging them to seek eternal, spiritual nourishment. They ask what works they must perform, and Jesus responds that the work of God is to believe in the one He has sent. Jesus declares Himself as the bread of life, emphasizing that belief in Him leads to eternal life. However, they do not believe because, as He explains, only those given to Him by the Father will come to Him.Second Discourse: Speaking to the Jewish Leaders Verses 41-59The Jewish leaders grumble, questioning Jesus' claim of divine origin. Jesus explains that no one can come to Him unless drawn by the Father, emphasizing divine election. Third Discourse: Speaking to the Disciples Verses 60-66Some disciples find Jesus' teachings difficult to accept. Jesus reiterates that true life comes through the Spirit and that belief is enabled by the Father. Many disciples turn away, demonstrating that not all learners are true believers.Fourth Discourse: Speaking to the Twelve ApostlesVerses 67-71Jesus asks the Twelve if they also want to leave. Peter professes their faith in Him. Jesus acknowledges He has chosen them, yet even among the chosen is Judas, who would betray Him.Conclusions and ObservationsGod Chooses Some PeopleThe Bible teaches that God elects individuals for salvation. This can be unsettling, but it is a clear biblical doctrine.Whosoever Will Can Be SavedThe Bible also teaches that anyone who believes in Jesus will be saved. These two truths coexist in Scripture.Urged to Trust in Jesus ChristDespite the mystery of election, the Bible consistently urges all to come to Jesus for salvation. This divine invitation is open tSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comPodcast Episode Study and Notes PageEpisode Title: Election or Freewill – Part One (John 6:1-24)Summary:In this episode, we delve into this difficult and profound question that has puzzled believers for centuries: Why do some people choose to believe in Jesus Christ while others do not? This discussion is centered around the concept of divine election versus human free will, using John 6:1-24 as the foundational text. Key Points:Decline in Church Attendance:Approximately 5 million people in the UK identify as Christian church members (only about 10% of the adult population).Why do some people believe in Jesus and others do not?It seem there are two possible answers: Belief as a choice (freewill) or belief as a result of being chosen (election).John 6 Overview:Miracles:Feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-15): Demonstrates Jesus' power and compassion.Walking on Water (John 6:16-24): Shows Jesus' authority over nature.Themes Explored:The interplay between divine election and human response.The role of divine enablement in coming to faith.The significance of recognizing and responding to Jesus' divine nature.Miracles as Signs:Feeding the 5,000:Jesus’ compassion and power in providing for physical needs.Significance of leftovers as a lesson for the disciples.Walking on Water:Demonstrates Jesus' divine authority.Strengthens the disciples’ faith.Human Responses to Jesus:Varied reactions to miracles and teachings.Insights into belief and unbelief among different groups.Reflection Questions:What do the miracles in John 6 reveal about Jesus’ divine nature?How do the reactions of the crowd and the disciples differ in response to Jesus' miracles?What does Jesus' teaching about being the bread of life suggest about the source of true spiritual nourishment?How do the concepts of divine election and human free will interact in the context of belief in Jesus?Practical Application:Trust in Provision: Reflect on times when you have seen God provide in seemingly impossible situations.Faith in Storms: Consider how recognizing Jesus’ presence in your life can bring peace amidst turmoil.Spiritual Nourishment: Focus on seeking spiritual fulfillment through a relationship with Jesus, the bread of life.Next Steps:Engage with the text of John 6 on your own, reflecting on the mirSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comEpisode Notes:We saw last time that Jesus, following His healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda, faced two major accusations from the Jewish leaders:Breaking the Sabbath.Making Himself equal with God.Because of these accusations, the leaders began to plot His death more seriously. Initially, they might have discussed this in small groups, but now they were determined to stop Him. The plot to kill Him grew as Jesus demonstrated His deity through His actions and teachings. The backdrop to His long sermon discourse in John 5:19-47 is the healing miracle and the subsequent dispute. In this extended discourse, Jesus makes several important claims and then provides proof for these claims. Let’s examine His claims starting from verse 19.Jesus’s Claims:Equality with the Father:Giver of Life:Judge of All:Honour Equal to the Father:Source of Eternal Life:Authority over Resurrection:Proofs of His Claims:Jesus doesn't just make claims; He provides evidence to support them. In verses 31-47, He presents three key proofs:The Testimony of John the Baptist:The Works of Jesus:The Testimony of the Father and the Scriptures:Why Do Some Refuse to Believe?Despite the compelling evidence, many people still refused to believe in Jesus. In verses 40-47, Jesus addresses the reasons behind their unbelief:Seeking Human Glory:Lack of Love for God:Misplaced Trust in the Law:Conclusion:The message from this passage is clear: Jesus is the Son of God, and the evidence of His identity is overwhelming. His claims are backed by the testimony of John the Baptist, His miraculous works, and the Scriptures. Yet, belief in Jesus is not merely an intellectual decision; it’s a matter of the heart and will.People refuse to believe in Jesus not due to a lack of evidence, but because of their desire for human approval, their lack of love for God, and their misplaced trust in their own righteousness. Jesus invites us to examine our hearts and choose to trust in Him. The offer of eternal life is open to all who will believe. Let us respond to Jesus, the Son of God, and experience the transformation and eternal life that only He can provide.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comEpisode Notes:Today, we are addressing the question: "If we have the truth and can demonstrate that Christianity is true, why don't more people recognize this truth and come to trust in Jesus Christ as their Saviour?"Despite the compelling evidence and testimonies, the majority of people in the world do not trust Jesus Christ as their Saviour nor recognize Him as the solution to life's biggest challenges. This was true during Jesus' earthly ministry and remains true today. Why is that? The Bible provides insight into this in John chapter 5. The first major section of the book (John 1:19 - 2:11) details the call and confirmation of His disciples. Then, from John 2:12 to chapter 12, we read about Jesus' public ministry, filled with preaching, miracles, and personal interactions where many believed in Him. However, chapter 5 marks the first explicit case of unbelief, revealing why many still do not believe in Jesus today.Demonstration of Divine Power.  (John 5:1-9)Jesus visits Jerusalem during a Jewish festival, likely Purim, at the pool of Bethesda. This pool, surrounded by five covered colonnades, was where many sick and disabled people gathered, hoping for healing. It was believed that at certain times an angel stirred the water, and the first person to enter the pool would be healed.Among the sick was a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. Jesus asked him, "Do you want to get well?" The man explained his plight—he had no one to help him into the pool when the water was stirred. Jesus responded, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." The man was immediately cured, picked up his mat, and walked.This miracle is a clear demonstration of Jesus' divine power. It underscores that Jesus is not just a healer but the Son of God, capable of performing miracles that reveal His deity.Dispute and Unbelief.  (John 5:10-18)The Jewish leaders were more concerned with the healed man breaking Sabbath law by carrying his mat than with the miracle itself. When they confronted him, he explained that the man who healed him instructed him to do so. Eventually, the healed man identified Jesus as his healer.The Jewish leaders' response was to persecute Jesus for healing on the Sabbath, revealing their focus on legalistic traditions rather than recognizing the divine act performed. Jesus defended Himself by stating, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working," equating Himself with God. This incited the leaders further, leading them to plot His death.ConclusionThis passage highlights two critical reasons why many do not believe inSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessThis Podcast is Hosted at;https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.comSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comEpisode Notes:The Difference Between Belief and Faith.  (John 4:43-54)Have you ever spoken to someone about the Lord and felt they didn’t truly know Him, despite their professed belief? This raises an important question: How can someone believe in Jesus and still not truly know Him in a saving faith? This question is crucial for many of us today. Do you believe in Jesus in such a way that you can confidently say, “I know Him” and have eternal life?To unravel this dilemma, we look at an incident in the life of Christ in John 4:43-54 that highlights the distinction between belief and faith.Setting the SceneAfter spending two days in Samaria, where He was welcomed, Jesus departed for Galilee. John notes that a prophet has no honor in his own country, suggesting resistance to His message in Nazareth. Arriving in Galilee, Jesus is welcomed because the people had seen His miracles in Jerusalem.The Nobleman’s RequestIn Cana, where Jesus had turned water into wine, a royal official’s son lay ill in Capernaum. Hearing that Jesus was in Galilee, the official traveled 20 miles to beg Him to heal his son. Jesus remarked, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe,” addressing the crowd’s need for miracles to believe.Despite this rebuke, the nobleman persisted, pleading for his son’s life. Jesus responded, “Go, your son will live.” The man believed Jesus’ word and departed. On his way back, his servants met him with the news that his son was living. Inquiring about the timing, he learned it coincided exactly with Jesus’ declaration.Deeper BeliefThe nobleman believed Jesus’ word about his son’s healing, but upon confirming the timing, he and his household believed more profoundly. This deeper belief acknowledged Jesus as the Son of God and the source of eternal life.Distinguishing Belief from FaithMany claim to believe in God and Jesus, but true saving faith goes beyond acknowledging facts. It involves trusting Jesus personally for eternal salvation. This passage illustrates that faith is the key to life and eternal salvation. As John 3:36 says, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.”Temporal faith trusts God for immediate needs, while saving faith entrusts one's eternal destiny to Jesus Christ. True saving faith involves believing that Jesus is the Son of God, that He died for our sins, and that He rose from the dead. It’s about a personal trust in Jesus as your Savior.ConclusionHave you ever trusted Jesus Christ to secure your place in heaven? Do you know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that you have eterSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com