Category Archives: Jesus Christ / Yeshua

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.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Purposeful / Intentional, Salvation, Submitted / Servant

When the World Rejects Its King (John19:1-16)

The world mocked the very One sent to save it — yet He stood in silent strength.

Key Verse:
“Pilate said to them, ‘Behold, your King!’ So they cried out, ‘Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him!’ Pilate said to them, ‘Shall I crucify your King?’ The chief priests answered, ‘We have no king but Caesar.’” —John 19:14–15 NASB

Background Context:
After being questioned by Pilate, Jesus is scourged, mocked, and crowned with thorns by Roman soldiers who kneel in false worship before Him. Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd, saying, “Behold, the Man!” hoping to stir compassion and avoid executing Him. But the religious leaders demand His crucifixion, accusing Him of claiming to be the Son of God — a charge Pilate fears may hold divine weight. Though Pilate finds no fault in Him, political pressure and fear of losing favor with Caesar drive him to surrender the innocent Savior to death.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 1:1-16

The Crown of Thorns

      1Pilate then took Jesus and scourged Him. 2And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and put a purple robe on Him; 3and they began to come up to Him and say, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and to give Him slaps in the face. 4Pilate came out again and said to them, “Behold, I am bringing Him out to you so that you may know that I find no guilt in Him.” 5Jesus then came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold, the Man!” 6So when the chief priests and the officers saw Him, they cried out saying, “Crucify, crucify!” Pilate said to them, “Take Him yourselves and crucify Him, for I find no guilt in Him.” 7The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and by that law He ought to die because He made Himself out to be the Son of God.”

      8Therefore when Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid; 9and he entered into the Praetorium again and said to Jesus, “Where are You from?” But Jesus gave him no answer. 10So Pilate said to Him, “You do not speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You, and I have authority to crucify You?” 11Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.” 12As a result of this Pilate made efforts to release Him, but the Jews cried out saying, “If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar; everyone who makes himself out to be a king opposes Caesar.”

      13Therefore when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out, and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha. 14Now it was the day of preparation for the Passover; it was about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, “Behold, your King!” 15So they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.”

The Crucifixion

      16So he then handed Him over to them to be crucified.

Reflection on John 19:1–16:
In this scene, truth and corruption stand face to face. Jesus, the embodiment of truth and innocence, remains silent before His accusers, while Pilate — caught between conviction and compromise — wavers in weakness. The religious leaders, blinded by pride, declare allegiance to Caesar over their own Messiah, revealing how far they’ve drifted from God’s heart.

Yet in the midst of this injustice, divine purpose unfolds. The true King allows Himself to be humiliated, crowned not with gold but with thorns. His silence is not defeat but strength — the calm of One who knows that His suffering will redeem the world. Pilate sought to appease men, but Jesus chose to please the Father.

When the world rejects truth, Jesus stands as our example of courage, integrity, and submission to God’s will. He bore injustice so that we might stand forgiven.

Application:
When you face misunderstanding or pressure to compromise your faith, remember Jesus before Pilate. Stand firm in truth, even when it costs you approval. Pray for the strength to live with integrity when the world’s values conflict with God’s Word. Let your confidence rest in Christ, who stood silent so you could stand forgiven.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who faced mockery and injustice with quiet strength and unwavering obedience. Forgive me for the times I have sought the approval of others more than Yours. Help me to stand for truth even when it’s costly, trusting that You are sovereign over every circumstance. May my life reflect the courage and faithfulness of my King. 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.

Courage / Fear, Faith / Trusting God, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Purposeful / Intentional, Truth

Choosing Barabbas Over Jesus (John 18:28-40)

Have you ever felt the tension between standing for truth and going along with the crowd?

Key Verse:
“Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.’” —John 18:36 NASB

Background Context:
After being denied by Peter and questioned by the high priest, Jesus is brought to the Roman governor, Pilate. The religious leaders refuse to enter Pilate’s headquarters to avoid ceremonial defilement during Passover, revealing their obsession with external purity while plotting violence. Pilate questions Jesus about being “King of the Jews.” Jesus responds that His kingdom is not political or earthly but rooted in truth. Pilate, caught between pressure from the crowd and his own uncertainty, declares Jesus innocent yet offers the crowd a choice between releasing Him or the criminal Barabbas. The people choose Barabbas.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 18:28-40

Jesus before Pilate

      28Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas into the Praetorium, and it was early; and they themselves did not enter into the Praetorium so that they would not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. 29Therefore Pilate went out to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this Man?” 30They answered and said to him, “If this Man were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered Him to you.” 31So Pilate said to them, “Take Him yourselves, and judge Him according to your law.” The Jews said to him, “We are not permitted to put anyone to death,” 32to fulfill the word of Jesus which He spoke, signifying by what kind of death He was about to die.

      33Therefore Pilate entered again into the Praetorium, and summoned Jesus and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” 34Jesus answered, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?” 35Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered You to me; what have You done?” 36Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.” 37Therefore Pilate said to Him, “So You are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.” 38Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?”
And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and said to them, “I find no guilt in Him. 39“But you have a custom that I release someone for you at the Passover; do you wish then that I release for you the King of the Jews?” 40So they cried out again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas.” Now Barabbas was a robber.

Reflection on John 18:28–40:
This passage exposes the frailty of human power and the enduring strength of God’s truth. Pilate, though a governor with authority, is indecisive and swayed by the crowd. The religious leaders, while appearing pious, reveal hardened hearts more concerned with control than justice. The people, given a choice, reject the true King in favor of a criminal.

In contrast, Jesus stands unshaken. He proclaims that His kingdom is not of this world and that He came to testify to the truth. His calmness highlights His sovereignty — He is not a victim of politics but the willing sacrifice fulfilling God’s plan. Pilate’s haunting question, “What is truth?” still echoes today in a world where compromise and relativism often replace conviction.

Application:
Where in your life are you tempted to compromise truth for comfort or acceptance? Like the crowd, we may choose what feels convenient over what is right. Following Christ means standing with Him, even when the world rejects Him. Remember that His kingdom is not built on shifting opinions but on eternal truth.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for showing us through Jesus’ example that Your kingdom is not of this world. Forgive me for the times I have chosen convenience or compromise over truth. Strengthen me to stand with Christ, even when it is unpopular or costly. May my life bear witness to Your eternal kingdom and the truth that sets us free. 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, Traditions / Holidays

In Yeshua We Have More Reason to Celebrate God’s Appointed Times

Most Christians today are taught that the appointed times, or Moedim, of Yahweh, are obsolete in Christ… that is if they are taught about them at all. What is interesting is that these same people cling tightly to man-made holidays like Christmas which were never called for biblically and are mixed and mingled with pagan beliefs over a long history in which the holidays evolved. Christ actually lived out the Moedim as an example for us. In Messiah, these are not made irrelevant but actually take on more meaning than before.

The Moedim help us remember what Yahweh has done for us. He is our Creator and Lord. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and present at all times in all places. Still, He takes time to know each one of us and He loves each one of us as a father. They also point us forward to what is to come.

This time of year is an exciting time to learn about and celebrate the fall Moedim, Yom Teruah (Day of Trumpets), Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement), and Sukkot (aka Tabernacles or Festival of Booths).  I will not attempt to discuss all the details in this post, but I will point out at a high level some quick observations how these have more meaning to remind us what is coming.

The day of trumpets reminds us that Christ will return and we should prepare ourselves. Yom Kippur reminds us to make atonement, recognizing that we are sinners and need Christ to be reconciled with the Father. Sukkot celebrates the return of the King, that Yeshua will come back and He will dwell among us.

I will post more about each appointed time as we get closer, but I would encourage each of you to start studying now and commit to learn more and celebrate.

You may find yourself asking, “Why are appointed times so important to God? The church has not taught me to celebrate it.” God tells us why it is important to Him in an example pertaining to Passover.

Exodus 13:1-16

8“You shall tell your son on that day, saying, ‘It is because of what the LORD did for me when I came out of Egypt.’ 9“And it shall serve as a sign to you on your hand, and as a reminder on your forehead, that the law of the LORD may be in your mouth; for with a powerful hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt. 10“Therefore, you shall keep this ordinance at its appointed time from year to year.

and again…

14“And it shall be when your son asks you in time to come, saying, ‘What is this?’ then you shall say to him, ‘With a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt, from the house of slavery. 15‘It came about, when Pharaoh was stubborn about letting us go, that the LORD killed every firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man and the firstborn of beast. Therefore, I sacrifice to the LORD the males, the first offspring of every womb, but every firstborn of my sons I redeem.’ 16“So it shall serve as a sign on your hand and as phylacteries on your forehead, for with a powerful hand the LORD brought us out of Egypt.”

The appointed times are not just for Jewish people who don’t believe in Christ as Messiah. They take on even more meaning through Messiah and help us draw nearer to the Lord. We could have a longer discussion on how to celebrate today, but for today I am really focused on encouraging you to read and study more, to embrace God’s holy days and learn more about them. God said we should, and he has great ideas. Once we make the decision to do it, then we take the next step and begin to study how… that is the journey my family and I are on today. We find joy in seeking to better understand our relationship with YHWH through studying and celebrating his appointed times.

Do take care that you don’t celebrate the Moedim because it is “required”. As the temple and the priests are not available, we can not celebrate in a fully biblical manner. Rather, let us use this as an opportunity simply to glorify Yahweh, grow our relationship with Him, and delight in Him.

Here are a few resources where you can learn more about the Moedim, the Creator’s calendar (often called the “Jewish” calendar), and given this time of year, Yom Teruah, Yom Kippurim, and Sukkot in particular.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please lead me in understanding and embracing Your ways. open my eyes to the wonderful ways of Your law and to Your appointed times. Let me not rely on the teaching of man or traditions of my family in prior generations, but rather on Your word. Lead others to celebrate Your appointed times across our country and let it draw us closer to You. Amen. 

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Obeying God

The Lamb Who Willingly Surrenders (John 18:1-14)

Jesus was not overpowered—He willingly gave Himself to fulfill the Father’s will.

Key Verse:
“So Jesus said to Peter, ‘Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?’” —John 18:11 NASB

Background Context:
After His prayer in John 17, Jesus crosses the Kidron Valley with His disciples to a garden—likely Gethsemane. Judas arrives with soldiers and officers to arrest Him. Yet rather than being overwhelmed, Jesus steps forward with authority, declaring “I am He.” The soldiers fall back at His words. He protects His disciples, fulfills prophecy, and rebukes Peter for resisting with violence. Jesus willingly surrenders, knowing He is walking into suffering according to the Father’s plan.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 18:1-14

Judas Betrays Jesus

      1When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, in which He entered with His disciples. 2Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples. 3Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them. 6So when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7Therefore He again asked them, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” 8Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you seek Me, let these go their way,” 9to fulfill the word which He spoke, “Of those whom You have given Me I lost not one.” 10Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; and the slave’s name was Malchus. 11So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?”

Jesus before the Priests

12So the Roman cohort and the commander and the officers of the Jews, arrested Jesus and bound Him, 13and led Him to Annas first; for he was father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 14Now Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was expedient for one man to die on behalf of the people.

Reflection on John 18:1–14:
This passage reminds us that Jesus’ arrest was not a tragedy of weakness but an act of obedience. Even in betrayal, He demonstrates divine authority—His declaration of identity makes armed soldiers stumble back. He ensures His disciples are spared, showing His shepherd’s care.

Peter’s impulsive use of the sword highlights human misunderstanding. He still thinks Jesus’ kingdom will advance by force. But Jesus redirects him: the cup of suffering must be accepted. God’s plan of redemption required His Son to be bound and led away like a lamb to the slaughter.

In this moment, we see both Jesus’ sovereignty and His submission. He is not a victim but the willing sacrifice who yields to the Father’s will for our salvation.

Application:
When trials come, do you resist with human strength like Peter, or submit to God’s will like Jesus? Sometimes obedience means accepting a cup we would rather avoid. But like Christ, we can trust the Father’s plan is good and necessary. His example calls us to faith, surrender, and courage even in the face of betrayal or suffering.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the example of Jesus, who faced betrayal and suffering with courage and obedience. Teach me to trust Your plan when I face trials, not to fight in my own strength but to walk in faith. Help me to surrender my will to Yours, knowing that You work all things for Your glory and my salvation. 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.