John: Putting Belief Into PracticeParaugs

Movies make the idea of secret codes seem like a lot of fun. Indiana Jones deciphers puzzles to find the lost ark. The cast of National Treasure runs around the U.S. capital following a trail of clues left by a secret society. The idea of uncovering secrets that are hidden in plain sight sets our imaginations on fire.

But God isn’t a secret society member leaving us clues and testing us with puzzles. In fact, it’s the opposite. God inspired the writing of the Bible by regular people so he could communicate his wisdom in ways they would understand. This is why the number seven is significant in the Bible. It’s not a secret clue to unlock or a puzzle to solve. As pastor Kyle Idleman said in today’s video, “John uses this number to help us understand Jesus better.” Seven represented completeness or perfection to ancient Jews. It’s an association rich with meaning. It’s not unlike how many modern cultures think red means stop and green means go. These associations are part of our culture and rich with meaning, too (safety!).

One of the remarkable things about Genesis 1 is the framework of seven days for creation. Ancient Jews would’ve clearly seen the seven days and thought of completion. God’s perfect, creative power fills the natural world. Truly, “it is good.”

Similarly, the number seven appears in the gospel of John multiple times to demonstrate the perfection of Jesus. For ancient Jewish readers, seven would have clearly associated Jesus with the creator God.

Reading the Bible can be challenging sometimes because we are far removed from the original cultural contexts. However, whether it's through Jesus’s parables filled with everyday illustrations, or cultural hallmarks of the day like the number seven, the Bible continually reveals that God is in the mix with everyday people. He’s not aloof or obfuscating. He doesn’t thrive on riddles and secret signs. Instead, God is revealed through Jesus and walks with you daily by the Spirit.

Reflection

What is the point of reading and understanding the Bible?

Do you have resources available to help you understand the Bible?

How has God revealed himself to you in your everyday life?

Prayer

Dear God, thank you for being the mix of everyday, normal circumstances. Teach me to see your Spirit at work in my life. And help me study the Bible well, not for knowledge, but for a connection with you, the living God. Amen.