Category Archives: Jesus Christ / Yeshua

Core Teaching, Discipline / Correction, Faith / Trusting God, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Share the Good News, Study the Word, Submitted / Servant, Teachable

The Great Commission – Personal Discipleship Plan

This teaching is really a core part of our personal walk with Yeshua. Please take the time to read through it prayerfully, even though it may be a bit longer than average.

At Hearing From Jesus, we take the commands of our Lord very seriously and that certainly includes The Great Commission. In fact, it is this command that most directly inspires our ministry. We want to obey Yeshua and make disciples of all the nations.

Besides being the command of our Lord, it is also a natural desire we have in gratitude to Yahweh for His grace and forgiveness and also out of love for other people, who may be headed for eternal separation from Him in hell, unless they hear and study the true word of God.

Matthew 28:16-20

16But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. 17When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. 18And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

To learn more about the Great Commission given to us by Yeshua, we recommend you study our teaching, The Great Commission – Make Disciples Of All The Nations, before continuing with this teaching on building a personal discipleship plan.

Whether Hearing From Jesus is a primary source for your personal study and growth with the Lord or just another valuable reference site, we have structured our ministry to help you become a disciple, a learner, of Christ and then to prepare to go and make disciples of others. This last point is important… it should not be our goal to do the absolute minimum we can and still get into Heaven. Those who have this attitude are far from the kingdom of Heaven. Our goal is to grow spiritually to the point that we are feeding ourselves from Yahweh’s word and growing in our relationship with Him from now until we die. It is a journey that we never finish, but it transforms us along the way to become more like our Messiah and less like our old sinful nature. We are to learn well enough to then teach others effectively and help them become disciples as well… so they can , in turn, teach others.

Overwhelming? It can be. So, how do we begin such a task?

Let us begin by studying and then following the example of Yeshua. Likewise, we can review how others, like Paul or Moses or Elijah practiced discipleship. In all the examples I just mentioned, these servants of Yahweh knew the ultimate authority was the Creator, not a religious authority figure or scholars or traditions. We must seek to develop a personal relationship with Yahweh. We must not cling to traditions of men, even if they are taught by religious authority figures. The Pope, like the earthly head of every religion, is quite fallible and what he teaches must be tested against the word of Yah in the Bible. Sadly it often contradicts God’s word. We must test everything against the truth of the scripture and seek Yahweh in prayer consistently. To be a disciple of Christ we must be willing to put Him first, above and before all other parts of our lives and it will be hard. We must lose our own lives in order to find true life with Jesus.

Matthew 10:34-39

34“Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35“For I came to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; 36and a man’s enemies will be the members of his household.

37“He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38“And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39“He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it.

Yeshua did not attend formal schooling or study at seminary. These things may be helpful, but are not necessary and for most of us, not practical. Yeshua studied the scriptures rigorously and with devotion since He was as child. So knowledgeable was He, that when He was twelve, He was amazing the scholars and teachers of the law.

Luke 2:46-47

46Then, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.

If you are coming to know Yeshua later in life, do not worry. Use the time our Father has given you and get started studying (not just reading) the Bible consistently today. He will reveal much to a devoted disciple through His word. Yeshua’s disciples certainly did not start studying scripture as children but God used them in a mighty way!

Yeshua had a powerful prayer life. Communicating with the Father to receive instruction through prayer is essential to live as an effective disciple. Yeshua did not pray when convenient… when He had time. Yeshua stayed up late and got up early. Consistent prayer is essential to staying submitted to the Father’s will rather than our own. To study more about Yeshua’s prayer life, I recommend reading Experiencing Prayer with Jesus, by Henry and Norman Blackaby.

When it was time for His public ministry to begin, Yeshua found a small set of disciples, or followers. He had an inner circle in which He invested much time (Peter, James, John) and He had a wider group, but still small, that included all twelve disciples. He invested much time in the twelve, but not as much as He invested in the closer circle of three. Yeshua also taught the masses who sought to hear God’s word. He never turned away those who were genuinely seeking the word of God.

We must recognize that Yeshua forced no one to be a disciple or to listen to His message. Instead He choose people as disciples who came enthusiastically and willingly. They were eager to learn and they were not rebelling against Yah, insisting on clutching onto their traditions or their personal lives before meeting Yeshua. They were willing to put Yeshua as a priority above all other things. They left much behind of what they knew to follow Him. Others whom he invited, such as the rich young ruler introduced in Matthew 19:16, could not put him first and thus chose not to follow him.

Yeshua made time for people and demonstrated compassion, but also remained focused on going about doing God’s work. He dealt with mockers appropriately so as not to let them distract Him from getting to those who wanted to hear. Yeshua would reply to those trying to trick Him, but only to provide a teachable moment and an opportunity for them to hear truth and repent, and then He would move on.

In three years He created a team of disciples who could go out and teach others. This is what disciple means… Yeshua does not call us to just remain a “baby” in the faith, needing constant care and feeding. Rather He calls us to be disciples who can learn and teach others to learn. Those others then teach more and there is a multiplying effect that has dramatically impacted the world over the last two thousand years… starting from the humble beginnings of a poor carpenter who taught truth and stood up against the established teachers and scholars of the time and against centuries of traditions of men which were put above the commands of God.

We will briefly comment regarding Moses, Elijah, and Paul but of course you can study and learn more about them by reading the scriptures.

Moses trained judges to be prepared to help meet the needs of the people in order to properly lead such a large number of people. [Exodus 18:17-26]

Elijah invested time to disciple Elisha, who became his successor. [1Kings 19:19-21]

Paul managed his disciples over a wider geography, across many different cities and regions. He taught to crowds, big and small, on his missionary journeys. However, he clearly had a close circle of disciples with whom he traveled and invested significant time and a wider circle of individuals whom he discipled through occasional visits and more frequently through correspondence (e.g. letters).

So… what do we learn from Yeshua and some significant servants of Yahweh? What is a practical way to begin?

We must all begin with study of the scripture and prayer. We must develop a strong personal relationship with the Father. Do not get in a hurry to be the teacher. Yeshua did not start discipling others immediately, he studied from time of child and started with disciples at 30 years old. His disciples spent three years under His instruction and care before going out to disciple others on their own. They maintained a support structure often going out in pairs and coming back to consult with one another.

Most of us need to identify resources and techniques for studying scripture, and possibly find a teacher or disciple who is further on the journey than we are to help lead the way and answer questions. We must learn to feed ourselves with Yah’s help, still listening to the wise, but testing all they teach against scripture.

When you are ready, start seeking those you can invest time and relationship in to come together to study Yah’s word with commitment and devotion. Seek your disciples, without giving up or forsaking your relationship with your teacher or with the Father. Keep feeding yourself and continue on the journey to know, love, and serve Yahweh or you will not be effective in leading others. Even if you do not feel comfortable guiding a Bible study on your own, set up a Bible study anyway. You can use material from our ministry or from other teachers who have already prepared and shared the message of God’s word. Just remember to test everything against the whole of scripture using your own discernment and prayer… as even good teachers have some doctrine incorrect… and some of it quite significant.

After a time, do not rush it, and staying connected to the disciples you study with… each of you perhaps in pairs can also set up separate small groups to disciple others. Invest in more than just Bible study, but in life activities and support one another. Do not tolerate among your disciples those who would tempt you to sloth or to disregard and rebel against God’s word by rationalizing sin or worldly culture as acceptable. Do not tolerate among your close disciples those that refuse to submit to Yahweh and repent of their sin, clinging to their sin nature and refusing to change behaviors to honor God. Follow Jesus’ instructions found in Matthew 18:15-17.

15“If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16“But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed. 17“If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.

Listen, also, to your fellow disciples when they point out to you your sin… for the wise listen to good advice with thanksgiving and become wiser. A fool despises correction.

Stay focused. Consider writing down a plan for your personal discipleship both as a learner and as a teacher. Review periodically, perhaps a few times a year, to evaluate your progress and commitment to this mission. Pray for our Father’s help frequently… “and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Please reach out to us with questions through our Contact Us page. Our intent is to teach you and support you in becoming a disciple, not just to give you a word from the scriptures daily… though that is a great start.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead me in Your word with wisdom and courage. Help me to develop the passion to pursue the truth and depth of Your word. Give me a humble heart so that I may learn from others, even as I become more mature spiritually. Help also prepare me to lead others and to go forth and make disciples. To You be all the glory and honor. Amen. 

Shalom

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Father / Yahweh, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Salvation, Truth

Faith That Overcomes the World (1 John 5:1-12)

What does it truly mean to overcome the world — is it power, influence, success, or something far deeper?

Key Verse:
“For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith.” —1 John 5:4 NASB

Background Context:
As John nears the conclusion of his letter, he draws together several key themes: faith, obedience, love, and assurance. He reminds believers that faith in Jesus as the Messiah is not merely intellectual agreement, but the beginning of a transformed life.

John emphasizes that loving God results in obedience to His commandments, which are not burdensome because they flow from a new nature. He then highlights God’s own testimony concerning His Son — a testimony confirmed by the Spirit, the water, and the blood — affirming that eternal life is found only in Jesus Christ.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 5:1-12

Overcoming the World

      1Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him. 2By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. 3For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. 4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

      5Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? 6This is the One who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ; not with the water only, but with the water and with the blood. It is the Spirit who testifies, because the Spirit is the truth. 7For there are three that testify: 8the Spirit and the water and the blood; and the three are in agreement. 9If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater; for the testimony of God is this, that He has testified concerning His Son. 10The one who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself; the one who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has given concerning His Son. 11And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life.

Reflection on 1 John 5:1–12:
John begins with identity. Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. This new birth changes how we relate to God and to others. Love for God naturally produces love for His children, and love for God is expressed through obedience to His commandments.

John is careful to clarify that obedience is not burdensome. This does not mean obedience is effortless, but that it is no longer oppressive. When our hearts are aligned with God, His ways are no longer experienced as chains but as life-giving truth.

John then speaks of victory. Overcoming the world does not mean escaping hardship or dominating culture. It means remaining faithful to God in a world that resists Him. This victory is not achieved by human strength, but through faith — faith rooted in who Jesus is and what He has done.

The testimony John refers to is crucial. Faith is not a blind leap. God Himself has testified about His Son. The Spirit bears witness, confirming truth within believers. The water and the blood point to the historical reality of Jesus’ life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Christianity is grounded in real events, witnessed and recorded.

John draws a clear line: eternal life is found in the Son. To have the Son is to have life; to reject Him is to remain without it. There is no alternative path offered here — only a gracious invitation to trust God’s testimony.

This passage reassures believers that faith, obedience, and assurance are woven together. Our confidence does not rest in our perfection, but in God’s faithful witness and the transforming power of new birth.

Application:

  • Rest in your new identity. You are born of God through faith in Christ.

  • Let love lead to obedience. God’s commandments are life-giving, not oppressive.

  • Understand victory rightly. Overcoming the world means remaining faithful, not avoiding trials.

  • Anchor your faith in truth. God’s testimony is historical, reliable, and Spirit-confirmed.

  • Cling to Christ. Eternal life is found only in the Son.

  • Walk with confidence. Faith produces assurance rooted in God’s promise, not your performance.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the gift of new life through faith in Your Son. Strengthen my trust in Your testimony and help me walk in obedience born from love, not obligation. Teach me what it truly means to overcome the world by remaining faithful to You. Anchor my confidence in Christ alone, and let my life reflect the victory You have already secured. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Father / Yahweh, Holy / Set Apart, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Repenting from Sin

Set Apart to Live Like Him (1 John 3:1-10)

Have you ever paused to truly consider how astounding it is that God calls you His child — and what that means for how you live?

Key Verse:
“See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are.” —1 John 3:1 NASB

Background Context:
John opens this section with an outburst of worship. He marvels that God does not merely forgive us — He adopts us. We are not simply servants or followers; we are His children. Because of this new identity, the world does not understand us any more than it understood Jesus.

John then connects identity to transformation. When Christ appears, we will be like Him, so even now we purify our lives in anticipation. He contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, explaining that habitual sin is incompatible with a life born of God.

This passage is not about sinless perfection but about the direction of one’s life — a life shaped by righteousness rather than rebellion.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 3 (1-10)

Children of God Love One Another

     1See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 2Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. 3And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.

      4Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness. 5You know that He appeared in order to take away sins; and in Him there is no sin. 6No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has seen Him or knows Him. 7Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; 8the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil. 9No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. 10By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor the one who does not love his brother.

Reflection on 1 John 3:1–10:
John begins with awe: “See what great love…” The message is not merely taught; it is exclaimed. Adoption into God’s family is a gift beyond human comprehension. The more we understand it, the more we recognize that our lives must be transformed to reflect our Father.

John reminds us that being God’s child will make us misunderstood in this world. Our values, our priorities, our hopes, and our obedience are different. We belong to a heavenly Father, not an earthly system.

Then he gives a forward-looking promise: “We will be like Him.” Our future glory motivates present purity. Hope in Christ leads naturally to holiness.

John then moves into a strong warning about sin. He speaks plainly: those who practice sin — meaning those who live in it as a pattern, habit, or defining lifestyle — show that they do not belong to God. Not because they struggle, but because they have no desire to change.

He is not describing the believer who stumbles and repents, but the person who is comfortable in sin and unchanged by grace.

John explains why:

  • Jesus came to take away sin.

  • Jesus appeared to destroy the works of the devil.

  • God’s seed — His life — remains in His children.

A transformed identity produces a transformed life.

This passage also reminds us that our faith is not a “blind leap.” It is anchored in the historical reality of Christ’s appearance, His victory over sin, and His ongoing work in those who belong to Him. Our transformation is evidence of His living presence.

Application:

  • Marvel at your identity. Begin each day remembering: “I am a child of God.”

  • Pursue purity. Let the hope of seeing Christ shape your choices today.

  • Examine your habits. Are your patterns consistent with belonging to God or to the world?

  • Do not become comfortable with sin. Repent quickly; cling to Christ’s power to change you.

  • Live as someone set apart. Expect to be misunderstood — your allegiance is heavenly.

  • Anchor your faith in truth. Your walk with God is rooted in real, historical acts of God, not vague spiritual sentiment.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for calling me Your child. Help me never take for granted the love that adopted me into Your family. Purify my heart, transform my habits, and empower me to walk in righteousness. Keep me from becoming comfortable with sin, and strengthen me to live as one who belongs to You. Make my life a testimony to the grace and truth of Your Son. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Guide, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Love, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin

Love Is Proven in Our Walk (1 John 2:1–14)

When you think about your relationship with God, do you ever wonder, “How can I be sure I truly know Him?”

Key Verse:
“The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” —1 John 2:6 NASB

Background Context:
John continues his message of assurance, clarity, and spiritual discernment to believers. In 1 John 2:1–14, he comforts the church by reminding them that Jesus Himself is our Advocate before the Father and the atoning sacrifice for our sins. But John also emphasizes that genuine relationship with God produces obedience and love.

He explains that the old commandment — to love — is new in Christ because it is now perfectly revealed in His life, death, and resurrection. John then speaks warmly to different groups within the church (“little children,” “fathers,” and “young men”), reassuring them of their forgiveness, strength, and spiritual triumph through God’s Word.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 John 2:1–14

Christ Is Our Advocate

      1My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.

      3By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; 5but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: 6the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.

      7Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. 8On the other hand, I am writing a new commandment to you, which is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true Light is already shining. 9The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. 10The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him. 11But the one who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.

      12I am writing to you, little children, because your sins have been forgiven you for His name’s sake. 13I am writing to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one. I have written to you, children, because you know the Father. 14I have written to you, fathers, because you know Him who has been from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.

Reflection on 1 John 2:1–14:
John begins with tenderness: “My little children, I am writing these things so that you may not sin.” He does not excuse sin — but neither does he leave the believer without hope. When we fall, “we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

This is not a sentimental comfort; it is a profound theological truth. Jesus Himself intercedes for us. He stands in our defense on the basis of His righteousness, not ours. His sacrifice is the propitiation — the complete, wrath-satisfying atonement — not only for our sins but for the whole world.

But John does not stop at comfort. He moves to examination. How do we know we truly know God? John gives a simple, searching answer: “By this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.”

Obedience is not the means of salvation but the evidence of genuine relationship. The one who claims to know God while ignoring His commands “is a liar.” The one who walks as Jesus walked shows that God’s love is being perfected in him.

Then John turns to love — the commandment that is both old and new. It is old because it has been God’s will from the beginning; new because Christ displayed it perfectly and empowers us to live it through His Spirit. Love is the distinguishing mark of those who walk in the light. Hatred or contempt toward others reveals darkness, no matter what a person professes.

Finally, John speaks encouragement to all believers. Children are forgiven. Fathers know the Eternal One. Young men have overcome the evil one and are strong because the Word of God abides in them. John’s words remind us that every stage of spiritual growth carries blessing, responsibility, and purpose.

Application:

  • Look to Christ when you sin. He is your Advocate — righteous, faithful, and always interceding for you.

  • Measure your walk honestly. True relationship with God produces obedience to His Word.

  • Walk as Jesus walked. Let His example shape your responses, priorities, and relationships.

  • Love with sincerity. Love is the visible evidence of walking in the light.

  • Let God’s Word abide in you. Strength against temptation flows from Scripture dwelling deeply in your heart.

  • Embrace your stage of spiritual growth. Whether young in faith or seasoned, God has purpose and encouragement for you.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving us an Advocate in Yeshua, who intercedes for us with perfect righteousness. Help me to walk in obedience, not as a burden but as evidence of knowing You. Fill my heart with genuine love for others, and let Your Word abide in me with strength and clarity. Teach me to walk as Yeshua walked, relying on Your Spirit every day. In His holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Introduction to Books of Bible, Jesus Christ / Yeshua

Closing Reflection: The Gospel of John — That You May Believe

From the first words — “In the beginning was the Word” — to the closing line — “The world itself could not contain the books that would be written” — the Gospel of John invites us to behold the greatness of Yeshua: not only as a teacher or miracle worker, but as God in the flesh, the Creator who became our Redeemer.

Across every chapter, John reveals who Yeshua truly is — the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Good Shepherd, the Resurrection and the Life, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. These are not poetic titles; they are living truths. Each miracle, each conversation, and each act of compassion draws us deeper into the revelation that eternal life is found only in Him.

John’s Gospel is unlike any other. It doesn’t simply record events — it unveils meaning. It shows us Yeshua’s heart: His love for the lost, His obedience to the Father, His willingness to serve even after rising from the dead, and His call for each of us to “Follow Me.”

Along the way, we’ve seen the full picture of divine love:

  • In John 3, the invitation to be born again.

  • In John 10, the Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep.

  • In John 13, the Messiah who kneels to wash feet.

  • In John 18–19, the Lamb who willingly drinks the cup of suffering.

  • In John 20–21, the risen Lord who restores, provides, and sends His followers to carry His mission forward.

The Gospel closes with two final truths we must never forget:

  1. John’s testimony is true. We can trust every word of Scripture, knowing it was written by those who saw and believed.

  2. We’ve only seen a glimpse. What we hold in the pages of the Gospel is a summary — a glimpse of infinite glory. Yeshua’s works are so vast that eternity itself will be the ongoing revelation of His majesty and love.

John wrote these things “so that you may believe that Yeshua is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:31)
That purpose remains true today. Every verse, every promise, every act of mercy calls you to believe — and to keep believing — that Yeshua alone is life.

As you finish this Gospel, take a moment to reflect:

  • What has Yeshua revealed to you about Himself through these words?

  • How has your understanding of faith, love, or obedience grown?

  • And how will you now live out His final command — “Follow Me.”

May the same Spirit who inspired John to write also inspire you to live — fully convinced, fully surrendered, and fully alive in the risen Messiah.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Yeshua, thank You for the gift of this Gospel and for revealing Yourself through every word. Thank You for being the Light in my darkness, the Shepherd who calls me by name, and the Savior who gave everything to bring me home. Strengthen my faith that I may follow You daily with courage and love. Let my life be one more testimony of Your grace — a story written not in ink, but in obedience. In Your holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Evidence in Scripture, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Praise / Worship / Glorify God

More Than We Can Imagine (John 21:24-25)

Even the greatest book ever written is only a glimpse of His glory.

Have you ever paused to think how much of Yeshua’s life, teaching, and power we have not yet seen?

Key Verse:
“This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true. And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written.” —John 21:24–25 NASB

Background Context:
John closes his Gospel not with a dramatic event, but with a declaration — both historical and personal. He reminds readers that the account they have just read comes directly from an eyewitness: one who walked beside Yeshua, saw His miracles, heard His teaching, and witnessed His crucifixion and resurrection. John’s testimony is not hearsay or legend; it is firsthand truth.

Yet, even as he affirms the truth of what he has written, John humbly admits that what he recorded is only a fraction of Yeshua’s work. The wonders of the Messiah’s life, the countless acts of compassion, the teachings that changed hearts, and the miracles never told — all of it together could not be contained in all the books the world could hold.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 21:24-25

    24This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true.

      25And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written.

Reflection on John 21:24–25:
These verses invite us into holy awe. After recounting the miracles, teachings, death, and resurrection of Yeshua, John essentially says, “And this is just the summary.”

Every page of the Gospel of John points to the glory of Yeshua — the Word made flesh, full of grace and truth. But here at the end, John reminds us that what he’s shared is only a glimpse of the infinite. The Savior’s life cannot be confined to human words. His works were not few or occasional; they were countless — acts of healing, mercy, revelation, and power that rippled through every moment of His ministry.

We sometimes forget how personal this statement is. John had lived beside Yeshua for years. He had seen the blind receive sight, the lame walk, the dead raised, and countless hearts transformed. Yet after witnessing all of that, John’s conclusion is simple: There’s far more than I could ever tell.

It’s also a reminder of the reliability of Scripture. John didn’t embellish or invent stories — he wrote what he personally saw and heard, guided by the Spirit of truth (John 14:26). His words are both trustworthy and sufficient to bring us to saving faith. We may not know everything Yeshua did, but we know enough to believe, to follow, and to worship.

Application:

  • Stand firm in the truth of Scripture. The Gospel of John is not myth or exaggeration — it is the eyewitness account of one who knew Yeshua personally.

  • Marvel at the greatness of Yeshua. What we know of Him is wonderful, but what we don’t yet know will be even greater.

  • Live in expectation. Eternity will not be long enough to exhaust the glory of knowing Him.

  • Reflect with gratitude. As you finish reading John, thank God that He has revealed enough for you to believe, and trust that one day you will see the rest of His works face to face.

Let that sink in: this Gospel — already so rich, so life-changing — is only a summary of all that Yeshua said and did. The full story is yet to be revealed in eternity.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word and the faithfulness of John’s testimony. Thank You for showing us the life, death, and resurrection of Yeshua — enough for us to believe and follow. Fill my heart with awe at the greatness of Your Son, whose works cannot be contained or numbered. Help me to live each day in wonder, gratitude, and hope, knowing that one day I will see the fullness of His glory. In Yeshua’s holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Evidence in Scripture, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Miracles, Miracles

Breakfast by the Sea (John 21:1-14)

Even after conquering death, Yeshua came back to serve, to provide, and to restore His disciples — showing that true greatness is always wrapped in humility.

Have you ever stopped to marvel that the risen Lord of all creation still chose to serve His friends breakfast by the sea?

Key Verse:
“Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples ventured to question Him, ‘Who are You?’ knowing that it was the Lord.” —John 21:12 NASB

Background Context:
After Yeshua’s resurrection, several of His disciples returned to Galilee. Unsure of what to do next, Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” The others joined him, but after working all night, they caught nothing. At daybreak, a man on the shore called out, instructing them to cast their net on the right side of the boat — and suddenly, the net overflowed with fish. John recognized Him first: “It is the Lord!” Peter, eager as always, jumped into the water to reach Him. When they arrived on shore, they found a fire burning, fish laid upon it, and bread prepared — breakfast made by the resurrected Messiah Himself.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 21:1-14

Jesus Appears at the Sea of Galilee

     1After these things Jesus manifested Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and He manifested Himself in this way. 2Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. 3Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will also come with you.” They went out and got into the boat; and that night they caught nothing.

      4But when the day was now breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5So Jesus said to them, “Children, you do not have any fish, do you?” They answered Him, “No.” 6And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch.” So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish. 7Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord.” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put his outer garment on (for he was stripped for work), and threw himself into the sea. 8But the other disciples came in the little boat, for they were not far from the land, but about one hundred yards away, dragging the net full of fish.

      9So when they got out on the land, they saw a charcoal fire already laid and fish placed on it, and bread. 10Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.” 11Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.

Jesus Provides

     12Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples ventured to question Him, “Who are You?” knowing that it was the Lord. 13Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish likewise. 14This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.

Reflection on John 21:1–14:
It’s hard to miss the miraculous in this passage — Yeshua has risen from the dead! The very fact that He stands alive before His disciples fulfills prophecy and confirms the hope of resurrection for all who believe. Yet, beyond the miracle, there’s something profoundly tender here. The risen Savior doesn’t appear in majesty or thunder from heaven — He shows up on a quiet shore with breakfast ready.

Even after conquering death, Yeshua continues to model the servant’s heart. He provides a miraculous catch where the disciples’ efforts failed, then cooks the fish Himself. The Creator who spoke the seas into being kneels to serve His followers once more. It’s a breathtaking display of humility, patience, and love.

This moment also proves beyond doubt that His resurrection was not imaginary or symbolic. As the Gospels tell us, He appeared to many over forty days, speaking, eating, and walking among them. The risen Messiah was physically present — living, breathing, and serving.

Yeshua’s example reminds us that service is not beneath greatness — it is greatness. Even in His glorified state, He remains the Good Shepherd who provides for His sheep. When our nets are empty, He fills them. When we are weary, He feeds us. When we wander in confusion, He gently calls us back with provision and grace.

Application:

  • Don’t grow numb to the miracle. Never lose your awe that Jesus truly rose from the dead — this truth changes everything.

  • Serve as He served. True followers of Yeshua reflect His humility and love through acts of care and compassion.

  • Trust His provision. Even when your efforts fail, remember that He stands on the shore, ready to guide and provide.

  • Recognize His presence in simple moments. A fire on the beach. A meal shared. The risen Savior meeting you in the ordinary.

Like the disciples, you may sometimes return to what’s familiar — to “go fishing” again. But Yeshua stands ready to meet you there, to fill your emptiness, and to serve you in love so that you may serve others in His name.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Yeshua, thank You for Your patience and compassion. Even after rising from the grave, You came to serve, provide, and restore. Help me never to take Your resurrection for granted or to forget the humility that defines Your greatness. Teach me to serve others with the same love You’ve shown me and to trust that You are always near — providing, guiding, and calling me to deeper fellowship with You. In Your holy name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Evidence in Scripture, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua

That You May Believe (John 20:30–31)

The Gospel isn’t just a story to inspire hope — it’s a record of truth meant to bring life.

Have you ever paused to remember that our faith rests not on wishful thinking, but on the proven work of a risen Savior?

Key Verse:
“Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.” —John 20:30–31 NASB

Background Context:
After recording Jesus’ resurrection and His appearance to His disciples, John closes the chapter with the purpose of his entire Gospel. He makes it clear that he did not write a full biography but a testimony — a selection of signs and events chosen to reveal Jesus’ true identity as the Christ, the Son of God. His goal was that through these records, readers across generations would not only know about Jesus but believe in Him, and through that belief, find eternal life.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 20:30–31

Why This Gospel Was Written

      30Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.

Reflection on John 20:30–31:
John’s closing words remind us that faith is not about collecting random facts — but it is also not detached from facts. Christian faith is anchored in historical reality: a real cross, an empty tomb, eyewitnesses who saw, touched, and walked with the risen Christ. As Peter later wrote, “We did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.” (2 Peter 1:16)

Our belief is not blind; it is reasoned trust based on what God has revealed and what history confirms. The miracles, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus are not myths — they are the recorded works of God in human history. But those facts alone are not enough; they demand a personal response. Faith moves from the head to the heart — from knowing about Him to trusting in Him.

John wrote so that every reader, from the first century to today, might come to that same realization: Jesus is not merely a teacher or prophet — He is the Christ, the Son of God. And believing in Him brings not just knowledge, but life — abundant and eternal.

Application:
Reflect today on how your faith is both informed and alive. Thank God that He has given you solid ground for belief — the witness of Scripture, the testimony of history, and the inner confirmation of His Spirit. If doubts arise, bring them to Him honestly, and let His Word strengthen your confidence. Then, live boldly as one who knows the risen Christ personally and historically — a faith that is both reasoned and relational.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that my faith is not built on myth or emotion, but on the truth of Jesus Christ — His life, His death, and His resurrection. Strengthen my belief, and let it deepen into living trust that shapes everything I do. Thank You for giving me a faith grounded in truth and filled with life. Help me to share that truth with others, so they too may believe and live. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Salvation

The Empty Tomb and Our Living Hope (John 20:1-18)

When Jesus rose from the grave, He didn’t just conquer death — He opened the way for us to live forever.

Have you ever found that your deepest sorrow became the place where God revealed His greatest power?

Key Verse:
“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means, Teacher).” —John 20:16 NASB

Background Context:
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and found the stone rolled away. Thinking Jesus’ body had been taken, she ran to tell Peter and John. When they arrived, they saw the linen wrappings lying there and believed, though they still didn’t fully understand the resurrection. Mary stayed behind, weeping outside the tomb. There, she saw two angels, and then she turned to see Jesus Himself — though she didn’t recognize Him until He spoke her name. In that moment, grief turned to joy. Jesus then sent her to tell the others the good news: He was alive.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 20:1-18

The Empty Tomb

      1Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, while it was still dark, and saw the stone already taken away from the tomb. 2So she ran and came to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.” 3So Peter and the other disciple went forth, and they were going to the tomb. 4The two were running together; and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first; 5and stooping and looking in, he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in. 6And so Simon Peter also came, following him, and entered the tomb; and he saw the linen wrappings lying there, 7and the face-cloth which had been on His head, not lying with the linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself. 8So the other disciple who had first come to the tomb then also entered, and he saw and believed. 9For as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead. 10So the disciples went away again to their own homes.

      11But Mary was standing outside the tomb weeping; and so, as she wept, she stooped and looked into the tomb; 12and she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” 14When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. 15Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing Him to be the gardener, she said to Him, “Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid Him, and I will take Him away.” 16Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (which means, Teacher). 17Jesus said to her, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’” 18Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.

Reflection on John 20:1–18:
This passage is both tender and triumphant. Mary came to the tomb in sorrow, expecting death — but what she found was victory and new life. Her tears were still fresh when the risen Savior called her by name, transforming despair into joy. It’s a deeply personal moment: the God of all creation stooping to comfort one grieving heart.

But it’s also a cosmic victory. Jesus’ resurrection was not just His personal triumph over death — it was the firstfruits of a greater harvest to come. As Paul wrote, “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20) Because He lives, we too will live. His victory is our assurance that death no longer has the final word.

At the tomb, heaven’s plan was revealed: the curse of sin was broken, the grave was defeated, and eternal life was secured for all who believe. Mary’s tears remind us that resurrection often begins in places of grief. When we feel buried under the weight of loss or fear, Jesus calls our name, inviting us to lift our eyes from the tomb to the triumph.

Application:
Spend time today reflecting on both the personal and eternal meaning of the resurrection. Jesus rose not only to comfort our hearts but to redeem our souls. Because He lives, death is not the end — it’s the beginning of eternal life with Him. Let that truth fill you with joy and gratitude. Whatever loss or uncertainty you face, remember: the tomb is empty, and your future is secure in Christ.

Closing Prayer:
Risen Lord, thank You for conquering death and calling me by name. Thank You that because You live, I will live also. Help me to remember that my hope is not in this world, but in the promise of resurrection life with You. Turn my sorrow into praise and my fear into faith. May I live each day as one redeemed by the power of Your cross and the victory of Your empty tomb. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Salvation

It Is Finished (John 19:28–37)

The cross didn’t end in defeat — it ended in victory.

Key Verse:
“Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!’ And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” —John 19:30 NASB

Background Context:
As Jesus hung on the cross, every detail of His suffering fulfilled prophecy. Soldiers cast lots for His clothing (Psalm 22:18). He was counted among the transgressors (Isaiah 53:12). Nearing death, Jesus, knowing that all things had been accomplished, said, “I am thirsty,” fulfilling Psalm 69:21. A jar of sour wine was lifted to His lips, and after receiving it, He declared, “It is finished,” bowed His head, and gave up His spirit. The soldiers, ensuring He was dead, pierced His side — and immediately blood and water flowed out, confirming both His death and the fulfillment of Scripture: “Not a bone of Him shall be broken” and “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 19:28-37

 28After this, Jesus, knowing that all things had already been accomplished, to fulfill the Scripture, said, “I am thirsty.” 29A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth. 30Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

Care of the Body of Jesus

      31Then the Jews, because it was the day of preparation, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32So the soldiers came, and broke the legs of the first man and of the other who was crucified with Him; 33but coming to Jesus, when they saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also may believe. 36For these things came to pass to fulfill the Scripture, “NOT A BONE OF HIM SHALL BE BROKEN.” 37And again another Scripture says, “THEY SHALL LOOK ON HIM WHOM THEY PIERCED.”

Reflection on John 19:28–37:
The words “It is finished” were not a cry of defeat, but a declaration of triumph. In Greek, the word tetelestai means “paid in full” or “completed.” Jesus’ work of redemption — the plan established before the foundation of the world — was now perfectly accomplished. The debt of sin was fully paid; nothing more could be added.

Every prophecy had been fulfilled, every demand of justice satisfied, and every barrier between God and humanity torn down. The blood and water that flowed from His side symbolize both cleansing and new life — the redemption that purifies and the Spirit that renews. Jesus did not simply die; He gave His spirit. Even in death, He remained sovereign, willingly laying down His life in obedience to the Father.

“It is finished” is the anthem of grace — the assurance that salvation is complete and cannot be earned, only received.

Application:
Reflect on what “It is finished” means in your own life. Are you still striving to earn God’s favor or trying to pay a debt He already settled? Rest in the finished work of Christ. Let His words quiet your striving and fill you with gratitude. Worship Him not by trying to repay Him, but by living in the freedom He secured — not freedom to do as we please, but freedom to live as God designed.

Closing Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for finishing the work of salvation on the cross. Thank You that my debt is paid and my soul redeemed. Help me to rest in Your grace and to live each day in gratitude for what You have done. Teach me to trust that nothing I face is beyond the victory You’ve already won. In Your name I pray, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.