Barton's Bible Study Notes

Life of Christ: Unit 5 - Sections 28-32

Read John 2:13-25. Jesus returned to Jerusalem for the Passover (April 7, AD 30) just as his parents had always done. All Jews were required by Old Testament Law to do this every year, although, in practice, most did not. This is the first of the four Passovers that Jesus went to Jerusalem to attend. At this Passover, He drove the merchants out of the Temple. He did this again at the last Passover He attended before His crucifixion. He also taught in the Temple.

1. What did Jesus say they were doing to the Temple?

2. How have we made Christianity or churches today into a business?

Read John 3:1-21.

3. Who was Nicodemus?

4. What possible reasons might explain why Nicodemus came at night to see Jesus?

5. Summarize the thrust of the message Jesus told Nicodemus in your own words.

6. What is the specific sin which brings judgment upon a person?

Read John 3:22-36.

7. What kinds of potential problems could have arisen from this comparison?

8. How did John handle the complaint that people were going out to see this new teacher rather than coming to him?

The Applications:

What are the applications of these passages to our lives today? Identify as many as you are able.