John·Chapter 7

Chapter Context

To understand this moment, let’s step back and look at what’s been happening in this chapter. Jesus is in the midst of a festival, teaching and stirring up all kinds of reactions. Some people are skeptical, some are curious, but here, right at this moment, the tide shifts. When they say, 'This really is the Prophet,' it’s a turning point. It shows that Jesus isn't just another teacher; He’s someone special, someone who might change everything. This declaration sets the stage for the conversations and confrontations that are about to unfold, deepening the drama in the story.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• when - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• heard - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• words - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• some - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• people - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• said - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• this - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• really - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• is - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• prophet - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What do you think it means to recognize someone as a prophet or a guide in your life? How might that change your perspective on the people you encounter every day?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 18:15 - This verse talks about a prophet that God promised to send, setting the stage for the expectation people had when they saw Jesus.
• Isaiah 9:6 - Written about 700 years before this, it describes a figure who would bring peace and hope, hinting at who Jesus would be.
• John 1:21 - Earlier in John, people were questioning if John the Baptist was the Prophet, showing the ongoing search for someone to fulfill that role.
• Matthew 21:11 - In this verse, people call Jesus a prophet, reaffirming what the crowd recognized about him in John 7:40.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in John 7:40. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Identity of Jesus, Skepticism and Belief, Authority and Teaching, Conflict with Religious Leaders, Public Opinion, Divine Timing, Hypocrisy of the Law

Key Verses

John 7:6, John 7:14, John 7:17, John 7:19, John 7:20

Historical Context

This chapter is set against the backdrop of the Feast of Booths, a time when Jewish families would dwell in temporary shelters to remember their ancestors' wanderings in the wilderness. The significance of this feast adds a rich layer to Jesus' teachings, as he speaks of spiritual sustenance and living water later in the chapter. Written around 85-95 AD, John’s Gospel aims to provide a theological perspective on Jesus' life and ministry, supplementing the Synoptic Gospels with unique insights into his identity as the Son of God. The chapter reflects the escalating tension between Jesus and the Jewish authorities, foreshadowing the events leading to his eventual crucifixion.