A Ready Explanation Part 3: Case Closed

John 5:30-47

God makes the identity of Jesus clear to all who are truly listening.

Jesus recognizes the Jewish leaders need verification of His identity. (30-31)

Jesus explains how God the Father confirms His identity. (32)

…through John the Baptist. (33-35)

…through the works of Jesus. (36)

…through the inner working of God. (37-38)

…through the Scriptures. (39-40)

Jesus argues that the Jews aren’t really listening.

…to God. (41-44)

…to Moses. (45-47)

Do you care like Jesus cares?

Are you listening like the Jews listened?

1. Read verse 30. How does this verse serve as a transition from verses 25-29 to verses 31-47? What point is Jesus making?

2. Read verse 31. Why can’t Jesus bear witness about himself? See Deuteronomy 19:15. What does Jesus’ willingness to adhere to the Jewish Law teach you about Jesus?

3. Read verses 32-47. In these verses Jesus lists five witnesses that bear witness about his identity. Reread these verses and list the five witnesses for Jesus. Why do you think Jesus chose to highlight these five witnesses? Why would these witnesses be especially impactful for the Jewish listeners to whom Jesus was speaking? Which witness do you think was the most convincing for them?

In what ways do you see the Scriptures acting as a witness for Jesus? Take some time to read each of these passages in Matthew as you answer the question: Matthew 1:22-23, 2:14-15, 3:1-3, 4:12-16, 8:16-17, 13:34-35, 21:4, 27:3-10. How does the witness of the Scriptures encourage us to believe in Jesus as the Son of God?

In what ways does Moses act as a witness for Jesus? See Deuteronomy 18:15, Matthew 5:17, Galatians 3:19-26. (Hint: God wrote the Law through Moses and at times the name Moses is used synonymously with the Law.)

4. So what? What from this passage encourages you in your personal faith in Jesus Christ? What from this passage could be used to talk with others about Jesus who are struggling to believe in him?