Johnson
is concerned that the fact Jesus is alive and well today is not
making a difference in Christians' lives. We have gradually come to
the place where we think any action that need be taken is up to us.
Johnson looks at thirteen conversations Jesus had and how they show
an open heaven. He helps us see what those stories teach us about
ourselves and how they move us to live on a different plane.
From
the discussion with Nathanael we see we need to become aware of a
reality to which we had been blind. From His talk with His mother we
learn we must trust Jesus to do what is needed at the right time
(water to wine). The discussion with Nicodemus calls us to be open to
the Spirit working in ways unexpected because of our preconceived
ideas. Johnson gives us other insights from the woman at the well,
the invalid beside the pool, the crowd, Jesus' brothers, the man born
blind, Martha, His disciples, Pilate, and Peter.
I
was really impressed with the insights from Jesus' interaction with
Martha. It is so hard for us to understand God's timing. We want God
to follow our schedule. Even in the midst of a puzzling situation God
gives reassurance of future hope, asking us to trust in Him.
This
book is a good one for people who like reading sermons for devotions
as that seems to be the style of the content. It would also be a good
resource for a pastor wanting to do a sermon series on the gospel of
John. There are questions at the end of each chapter so the book
could also be used for a group study.
Food
for thought: “Jesus broke through the sealed dome and entered into
this self-reliant world to declare it is not up to us.” (23)
My
rating: 4/5 stars.
John
E. Johnson is an associate professor of pastoral theology at Western
Seminary in Portland, Oregon, a writer, and a teaching pastor. He has
served various churches including Trinity International Church in The
Hague, Netherlands. You can visit his blog at http://drjohnejohnson.org/.
Kregel
Publications, 264 pages.
I
received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My
comments are an independent and honest review.
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