John 20-21

John 20-21 Study Guide – to be discussed AM December 9, PM December 16
Day 1: Read John 20:1-10
1. Why did Mary Magdalene run to find Peter and John early on a Sunday morning?



2. Who ran faster, Peter or John? Which disciple entered the sepulcher first? What did he see?



3. John 20:8 records John “saw, and believed.” What did he believe?



Day 2: Read John 20:11-18 (with footnote 17s)
4. Why might Mary have remained at the sepulcher after Peter and John went home?



5. What one word spoken by the Savior caused Mary to recognize him?


6. What reason did Jesus give when he commanded Mary not to hold him? (See footnote 17a.)


EXTRA CREDIT: Read Luke 24:13-32. Why didn’t the disciples on the road to Emmaus SEE and KNOW Christ? What happened to open their eyes?

Day 3: Read John 20:19-23, 3 Nephi 11:13-17
7. What were Christ’s first words to his disciples as they were assembled?


8. Considering all that the Lord could have said when he appeared in his resurrected state to the disciples, what does this first expression tell you about his attitude toward or feeling for his own?



9. Read 3 Nephi 11:13-17. What does the account in 3 Nephi add to your understanding of why the Savior showed his disciples the tokens of his crucifixion? Following this witness in Jerusalem, what commission did Jesus give his disciples?



Day 4. Read John 20:24-31, Alma 32:21-23
10. What three witnesses was Thomas given of Jesus’ divinity?



11. What specific hope do you receive from Jesus’ words in John 20:29 and Alma’s words in Alma 32:21-23?

12. Why did John record his testimony in this gospel? (See also Mosiah 3:17, Acts 4:12.)


Day 5: Read John 21:1-8
13. How many disciples went fishing with Peter? What time of day did they go fishing? How successful were they?



14. Why do you think Peter wanted to go fishing?



15. What time of day was it when Jesus stood on the shore? Which disciple first recognized the Lord? By what did he know him?



Day 6: Read John 21:9-17
16. What thoughtful act of service did Jesus perform for his disciples?



17. In verse 15, Jesus asks Peter, “Lovest thou me more than these?” To what or to whom might the lord have been referring when he said “these”?



18. Why do you think the Lord questioned Peter three times regarding his love? What was his three-fold command?



Day 7: Read John 21:18-25, D&C 7:1-8
19. Of what did Jesus prophesy in John 21:18?



20. Read D&C 7:1-8. What was Peter’s desire regarding his ministry? What was John’s desire? Was one greater than the other?



21. From the last two verses in John 21, what does John say about the works of the Savior?



BONUS: Do you have a favorite verse or story from John’s Gospel? Is there anything you might do differently because of this study?

John 18-19

John 18-19 Study Guide to be discussed December 2
[NOTE: No classes on November 25, Thanksgiving]
Day 1: Read John 18:1-2, Mark 14:32-42 (with footnotes 33a,b), JST Mark 14:36-38, Luke 22:40-46, D&C 19:16-19
1. Read Mark 14:32-42 and D&C 19:16-19. Why was Jesus “sore amazed”?



2. Read JST Mark 14:36-38. Why did the disciples have heavy hearts? How did Jesus react to their doubts?



3. Read Luke 22:42-46. What important details did Luke include?



BONUS: Look for the Kidron (Cedron) Valley to the east of the temple mount on map 12 in your Bible Appendix. About how far is it, as the crow flies, from the Susa Gate to the Garden of Gethsemane?

Day 2: Read John 18:3-14
4. Who was included in the “band of men” mentioned in John 18:3? What did they bring? What did Jesus ask them in John 18:4 and 7?


5. Who was in control of the confrontation between Jesus and the mob? Why did the mob fall to the ground (v.6)?



6. Did Peter understand who was in control? How do you know?



Day 3: Read John 18:15-27, Luke 22:59-62
7. Why do you think Peter, who had so recently defended Jesus, denied knowing him?



8. Why did the high priest question Jesus about his disciples and his doctrine? Did he really want to know?



9. Read Luke 22:54-62. What details did Luke include regarding Peter’s three-fold denial?



Day 4: Read John 18:28-40, Matthew 27:1-2
10. Why didn’t the Jews enter the judgment hall?


11. Read Matthew 27:1-2. What time of day was it when Jesus was taken to Pilate? List what Jesus had done the night before, beginning with the washing of his disciples’ feet in John 13.


12. List questions Pilate asked Jesus. What might Pilate have learned had he listened to Jesus’ answers sincerely?




BONUS: Look up “Barabbas” in the Bible Dictionary. What does “Barabbas” mean?


Day 5: Read John 19:1-18
13. Why was Pilate afraid to condemn Jesus?



14. How did the chief priests answer Pilate’s question, “Shall I crucify your king?”



15. Why was Pilate afraid NOT to condemn Jesus?



Day 6: Read John 19:19-27, Psalm 22:18
16. Why do you think Pilate wrote the title he did and refused to amend it?



17. Read Psalm 22:18. Why did the soldiers cast lots for Jesus’ coat?



18. Who did Jesus show concern for as he hung on the cross?



Day 7: Read John 19:28-42 (with footnote 31c), Psalm 22:1, 6-7, 14-15, Psalm 69:21, Numbers 9:11-12, Isaiah 53:3-9
19. Why did the Jews want to hasten the deaths of those being crucified?



20. Why do you think John specifically bore witness of Jesus’ physical death (John 19:34-35)?



21. In order to emphasize the fact that Jesus was the Messiah promised by prophets of old, John detailed the fulfillment of their prophecies rather than give every detail of the crucifixion. List fulfillments of the prophecies in Psalm 22:1, 6-7, 14-15; Psalm 69:29; Numbers 9:11-12; Isaiah 53:3-9. (See also 1 Nephi 19:9.)

John 16-17

John 16-17 Study Guide – to be discussed November 18
Day 1: Read John 16:1-11 (with footnote 7a)
1. What kinds of trials did Jesus say his apostles would have to face? Why would they face these?



2. How would the Holy Ghost help the apostles through their trials? (See also D&C 76:5-10.)



3. Why did Jesus need to leave?


BONUS: List functions of the Holy Ghost from John 16:8-11.



Day 2: Read John 16:12-22
4. List functions of the Holy Ghost from John 16:13-14.



5. When did Jesus say his apostles would see Him again?


6. How would the apostles’ sorrow be turned to joy? (John 16:20)



Day 3. Read John 16:23-33 (with footnotes 23a, 25a), 3 Nephi 19:18-22
7. What did Jesus teach his apostles about prayer? Why do you think this was so important as he prepared to leave them? (See also 3 Nephi 19:18-22.)



8. How would Christ show his apostles plainly of the Father?


9. Identify the question, the prophecy, and the words of comfort in John 16:31-33.



Day 4: Read John 17:1-10 [Note: This chapter is often referred to as Christ’s “Great Intercessory Prayer”]
10. Who did Jesus pray for in John 17:1-5? Why did he ask the Father to “glorify” him?



11. According to John 17:3, what is eternal life? Cross-reference this scripture to John 6:54.



12. Give three reasons for Jesus’ special love and connection to “his own.”



Day 5: Read John 17:11-19
13. How are we “in the world”? How are we NOT “of the world”?



14. What favors regarding “his own” did Jesus ask of the Father?




15. What did Jesus mean when he said, “… I sanctify myself that they also might be sanctified through the truth (v.19)?



Day 6: Read John 17:20-26, Bible Dictionary entry, “Glory of the Lord”
16. Why is unity necessary in the Godhead? In the Church? In the ward? In the family? (See also Moses 7:18.)




17. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Glory of the Lord.” How does the Lord give you glory?



18. List Jesus’ final requests to the Father in behalf of his disciples.




Day 7: Review John 17
19. From John 17, list six things Jesus said he gives us if we are his own.




20. Mark phrases in John 17 you might use as a parent praying for your children.




21. How many times is the word “glory” or “glorified” used in John 17? What did you learn about glory in this study?

John 14-15

John 14-15 Study Guide – to be discussed November 11
Day 1: Read John 14:1-6, D&C 72:4
1. Read John 14:2 with D&C 72:4. How can we become worthy to inherit the Father’s mansions?



2. How is Jesus “the Way”? (See also Isaiah 35:8, Isaiah 55:8-9, 1 Corinthians 10:13.)




3. How is Jesus “the Truth”? (See also Deuteronomy 32:4, D&C 93:26-30.)




Day 2: Read John 14:7-14, D&C 88:45-50
4. What did Jesus mean when he said, “…from henceforth ye know [the Father], and have seen him” (John 14:7)? Why did Philip misunderstand?



5. Give three evidences of Jesus’ deity from John 14:10-14.




6. Read D&C 88:45-50. How can we see God’s majesty and power?



Day 3: Read John 14:15-26 (with footnote 18a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Comforter”
7. How can we express our true love for the Savior?



BONUS: List three names Jesus used for the Holy Spirit in John 14:15-26. How does each name give a unique description of the mission of the third member of the Godhead?




8. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Comforter.” What did Jesus mean when he said he would send “another comforter, that he may abide with you forever” (John 14:16)?




9. List promises from John 14:21 and 23 to those who have and keep the Lord’s commandments.



Day 4: Read John 14:27-31 (with footnote 30a)
10. How is God’s peace different from the peace of the world? (See also Philippians 4:7, James 3:17, and D&C 6:23.)



11. Why did Jesus want his disciples to rejoice at his death?



12. Who is the “prince of this world”? Read the footnote to John 14:30a. Over whom does the prince of darkness have power?



Day 5: Read John 15:1-8 (with footnote 2c)
13. How is Christ like a vine, or tree trunk? Who is the husbandman?



14. In this parable, who are the branches? What is the purpose of the branches?



15. How is the Father glorified?



Day 6: Read John 15:9-17
16. List promises to those who keep God’s commandments.



17. Why did Jesus call his apostles “friends”?



18. How does Christ-like love bear fruit? (See also Galatians 5:22.)



Day 7: Read John 15:18-27 (with footnote 22b)
19. Why does the world hate truth?



20. Why did Jesus’ listeners have no “cloak” or excuse for sin?



21. How does the Lord offer protection from the persecutions of the world?

John 12-13

John 12-13 Study Guide – to be discussed November 4
Day 1: Read John 12:1-11 (with footnotes 6b, 7a)
1. How did Mary show love and gratitude for the Savior? Was there sacrifice involved?




2. Why did Judas raise an objection to Mary’s offering? How did Jesus answer his objection? (See footnote 7a.)



3. Why did the chief priests conspire against Lazarus?



Day 2: Read John 12:12-19, Luke 19:29-44, Zechariah 9:9, Bible Dictionary entry, “Hosanna”
[NOTE: All four Gospel writers record Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem. See also Matthew 21:1-11 and Mark 11:1-10.]
4. List details from Luke 19:19-44 not included in John’s record of the Lord’s triumphal entry.




5. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Hosanna.” What does “hosanna” mean and why did the people greet Jesus using this word?



6. How did Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem fulfill the prophecy in Zecharaiah 9:9? From John 12:18, why were so many people there? What kind of triumph did they anticipate?




BONUS: If Passover began on a Friday night, on what day of the week was the triumphal entry?


Day 3: Read John 12:20-36
7. How was the doctrine Christ taught in John 12:24-26 designed to prepare his listeners? How might it prepare us today?




8. What did Jesus say directly before the Father’s witness? Did the congregation hear and understand that witness?





9. In John 12:31-32, who will be judged? Who is the prince of this world? How would Jesus be “lifted up”?



Day 4: Read John 12:37-50, Isaiah 53:1-6
10. Why did so many still fail to recognize Jesus as the Christ?



11. Why didn’t many of the believing chief rulers confess Christ?



12. Why did Christ come into this world?



Day 5: Read John 13:1-11, JST John 13:8-10, D&C 88:139-141 (For background, read Luke 22:24-30.)
13. List three things Jesus knew, as recorded in John 13:1-3.



14. Why did Jesus want to wash the disciples’ feet? (See also D&C 88:139-141.) Why did Peter initially refuse?



15. Read JST John 13:8-10 (p. 808 in Bible Appendix). How does this new translation add to your understanding of the Lord’s answer to Peter?



Day 6: Read John 13:12-21 (with footnote 19a), D&C 39:5-6, D&C 84:35-39, Psalm 41:9
16. What kinds of actions did Jesus suggest would help his disciples be happy?



17. Read D&C 39:5-6 and D&C 84:35-39. What does it mean to “receive” God’s servants (John 13:20)?



18. Read Psalm 41:9 with John 13:18 and 21. Why was Jesus troubled?



Day 7: Read John 13:22-38, Luke 22:31-33
19. Was it too late for Judas to repent and turn away from his betrayal? Why or why not?



20. How did Jesus prepare his disciples to endure his death and to lead the church in his absence?



21. Read Luke 22:31-33. List additional details regarding Peter’s exchange with Christ from Luke’s account. Do you think Peter was sincere in his offer to die for his Lord?

John 11-12

John 10-11 Study Guide – to be discussed October 28
[Note: In John 10, verses 1-21 relate events that occurred directly after the events recorded in John 9. The events described in John 10:22-42 happened 2-3 months later.]
Day 1: Read John 10:1-10 (with footnote 8a), 2 Nephi 31:17-18, D&C 18:34-36, D&C 64:34, D&C 66:2
1. Does a good shepherd lead or drive his sheep? What is required of the sheep? (See also D&C 18:34-36.)



2. Mark the third “I AM” statement in John 10:9. Read 2 Nephi 31:17-18. What does the “gate” represent in this scripture block? Why did Jesus identify himself with “the door of the sheep”?



3. Read D&C 64:34 and D&C 66:2 with John 10:10. How can we claim the promise the Savior made in John 10:10, to have a more abundant life?



Day 2: Read John 10:11-21 (with footnote 18c), Isaiah 40:11, Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 1 Nephi 22:25, Mosiah 26:20-22
4. Mark the fourth “I AM” statement in John 10:11. Read all references listed above. What does the good shepherd do for his sheep – physically and spiritually?




5. Why do hirelings abandon the sheep? Who were the “hirelings” in John 9? Without using names, who might be seen as hirelings today?



6. From whom did Jesus inherit the ability to lay down his life? From whom did he inherit the power to take it up again?



Day 3: Read John 10:22-42
7. How did Jesus answer the question about his Messiahship in John 10:24?



8. What can we do to be counted among the Lord’s sheep? List promises from John 10:27-29.



9. Why did the leaders of the Jews want to stone Jesus? What witness did Jesus call to their attention? Does it sounds as though some of them listened and followed him?




BONUS: How many times did the Lord refer to his sheep recognizing his voice in John 10?


Day 4: Read John 11:1-16 (with footnotes 2a, 16a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Bethany”
10. Who were Mary, Martha and Lazarus? Look up “Bethany” in the Bible Dictionary. What does the name “Bethany” mean?



11. Why was Jesus glad he had not been in Bethany when Lazarus was dying?



12. What did Thomas offer in John 11:16?



Day 5: Read John 11:17-29 (with footnotes 17a, 18a)
13. How long had Lazarus been dead when Jesus arrived in Bethany?


14. Mark the “I AM” statement in John 11:25? How does it relate to the situation with Lazarus?



15. List the progressive steps in Martha’s testimony, from John 11:21-28.




Day 6: Read John 11:30-42
16. Why do you think Jesus wept?



17. Which of Martha’s statements shows she didn’t yet understand Jesus’ power and/or intent to ease her pain?



18. What was the purpose of the Savior’s prayer in John 11:41-42?



BONUS: How do you think you would have reacted to the sight of Lazarus come back from the dead?


Day 7: Read John 11:43-57
19. Give two reasons Lazarus was raised from the dead.



20. For what purpose did the chief priests and Pharisees sit in counsel?


21. Who was Caiaphus? How was his statement in John 11:50-52 ironic and prophetic?

John 8-9

John 8-9 Study Guide – to be discussed October 21
Day 1: Read John 8:1-11, Deuteronomy 17:6-7
1. Why had Jesus come to the temple? How did he respond to the questions of the scribes and Pharisees? Why?



2. What kind of stones do we sometimes throw today, and at whom? (See footnote to John 8:7c, and expand.)



3. How were the woman’s accusers convicted? Why didn’t the Savior condemn her?



Day 2: Read John 8:12-30, John 3:31, Moroni 10:24-26, Abraham 3:24-28
4. Underline the words, “I am” in John 8:12, 16, 18, 23, 24 and 28. Why did the Pharisees reject Jesus’ witness or declaration of himself? What other witness did Jesus offer?



5. Read John 3:31 and Moroni 10:24-26. What did Jesus mean when he said, “ye are from beneath” (John 8:23), and “ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24)?



6. Read Abraham 3:24-28. What is the ultimate example of Christ doing the will of the Father?


Day 3: Read John 8:31-45, D&C 50:25, D&C 84:44-45, D&C 93:26-28, John 16:13
7. How can the truth make us free? (See also D&C 50:25, D&C 84:44-45, D&C 93:26-28, John 16:13.)



BONUS: Use D&C 50:25 to explain why Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world,” while teaching in the temple.


8. How did Jesus explain the bondage of the people (who were at that time in bondage to Rome)? What sins of the Pharisees did Jesus point out?



9. Were the Pharisees literal descendants of Abraham? Were they spiritual descendants of Abraham? Which of the Pharisees’ sins did Jesus point out?



Day 4: Read John 8:46-59 (with footnotes 46a, 47a, 58b), D&C 63:49
10. Compare John 8:46 with John 8:7. Why do you think the people were more eager to kill Jesus than they were to kill the woman taken in adultery?


11. Read D&C 63:49 with John 8:51. How might those who keep the commandments never see death?



12. In John 8:54-58, Jesus made clear his role as Jehovah of the Old Testament and Son of God. Why weren’t the Pharisees able to see who He was?


Day 5: Read John 9:1-12 (with footnote 4c), Isaiah 8:5-7
13. What question did Jesus’ disciples pose regarding the blind man? What was Jesus’ answer?



14. Why do you think the Lord made a physical poultice to apply to the man’s eyes, rather than just touching or blessing them?


BONUS: Read Isaiah 8:5-7. Of what are the waters of Siloam a type or symbol?


15. What did the blind man know about Jesus at this point in the narrative?


Day 6: Read John 9:13-23
16. What were the two opinions among the Pharisees regarding this miracle?



17. In John 9:17, what did the once-blind man say he knew about Jesus?


18. How do you feel about the parents’ answer to the Pharisees?



Day 7: Read John 9:24-41 (with footnote 32a), Jacob 4:14-16
19. Why were the Pharisees eager to question the man born blind? How did the previously blind man fulfill Jesus’ prophecy from John 9:3?



20. Read Jacob 4:14-16 (written well before Christ’s birth). Why did the Pharisees cast out (excommunicate, ostracize) the man born blind?



21. List the verses in John 9 that trace the progression of the blind man’s testimony (starting with John 9:11).



BONUS: Re-write John 9:39-41 in your own words.

John 6-7

John 6-7 Study Guide, to be discussed October 14
Day 1: Read John 6:1-14, Mark 6:21-44
1. Read Mark 6:21-36. What event took place directly before the events recorded in John 6? Why did Jesus and his apostles seek privacy?



2. From John 6:2, why did the multitude follow Christ? From John 6:11, what did Jesus do before he fed the multitude?



3. Read Mark 6:38-44 with John 6:9-14. List details from each account indicating this miracle was done in an orderly fashion.




BONUS: Why were the fragments gathered?



Day 2: Read John 6:15-27 (with footnote 26a), Mark 6:45-51 (with footnotes 46a, 48a, 50a, 52a)
[NOTE: 25-30 furlongs = 3-4 miles; the “fourth watch” was from 3-6am]
4. Why did the people want Jesus as their king? Why did Christ retreat from them? (See also Mark 6:46.)



5. What did Jesus say to his disciples as they rowed against the wind, in order to calm their fears?


6. In John 6:25, by what title did the people address the Savior? What was Jesus trying to teach the people in John 6:27?



Day 3: Read John 6:28-46 (with footnote 40c), JST John 6:44
7. What “work” did Jesus say the people must do in order to “work the works of God”? What did they request of him?



8. List ways in which Christ is like manna. (See also Exodus 16:2-4, 14-15 with footnote 15a; Numbers 11:4-9; Revelation 2:17.)




9. Why did the Jews murmur? Compare John 6:44 with John 6:65a. What must we do to “come unto Christ”?



Day 4: Read John 6:47-71 (with footnotes 54c, 65a, 69a), Alma 5:33-36, 3 Nephi 18:1-7, John 17:3
10. Read Alma 5:33-36 and 3 Nephi 18:1-7. List ways in which Christ is the Bread of Life.



11. Read John 17:3 with John 6:54-55. How can we have eternal life?



12. Why do you think so many disciples “walked no more” with Jesus after this miracle and discourse? What was Peter’s answer when the Lord asked if the twelve would also go away?




BONUS: Review John 6. How many times did Jesus say “I am the bread…”?

Day 5: Read John 7:1-13, Matthew 12:46-50
13. Read Matthew 12:46-50. Who might John have been referencing as Jesus’ “brethren” in John 7:3,5, and 10?


14. Why did his brethren want Jesus to go up to Jerusalem?



15. What were people saying about Jesus in Jerusalem, and why did no one speak openly?



Day 6: Read John 7:14-31 (with footnote 24b)
16. Where did Jesus teach? How did he say we might know if his teachings are true?



17. What statement from the people in Jerusalem indicates they were waiting for the Sanhedrin to declare Jesus the long-awaited Messiah?


18. Why did many believe?


Day 7: Read John 7:32-53 (with footnote 39b), Mosiah 18:5-14
19. Read Mosiah 18:5-14 with John 7:37-40. How can we receive the Spirit, or feel it “poured out” upon us?


20. What were the four schools of thought among those who heard Jesus preach? How are these four ideologies represented among people today?



21. How did the Pharisees react to Nicodemus’ defense of the law? Compare with John 1:46.

John 4-5

John 4-5 Study Guide – to be discussed October 7 (NOTE: No class September 30 because of Auxiliary Training Meeting)

Day 1: Read John 4:1-15, JST John 4:1-4, Bible Dictionary entry, “Samaritans”
1. List three facts from JST John 4:1-4 not included in the KJV. Why did Jesus leave Judea?




2. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Samaritans.” Why was the Samaritan woman surprised Jesus would even talk to her?



3. What three things did the Samaritan woman need to know and/or do to receive living water? Can you apply these three things to our lives today?




BONUS: How is the living water Jesus offers similar to physical water? How is it different? (See also Psalm 42:1-3, Isaiah 55:1-3, Isaiah 58:10-11, Jeremiah 2:13, Revelation 7:13-17.)



Day 2: Read John 4:16-30 (with footnotes 24a, 26a)
4. Why do you think Jesus asked the woman at the well to go call her husband?



5. How do true worshippers worship? Using the footnote to John 4:24a, what are true worshippers promised?




6. Why did the Samaritan woman leave her water pot?



Day 3: Read John 4:31-54
7. How did Jesus define his “meat” (sustenance, strength)?



8. On what was the faith of the Samaritans in this story based? How was it strengthened?




9. How did the nobleman from Capernaum exhibit active faith?




Day 4: Read John 5:1-9 (with footnote 1a), Bible Dictionary entry, “Bethesda”
10. How long had the infirm man at the pool of Bethesda been ill?



11. What question did Jesus ask the man in John 5:6? What was His command in verse 8?


12. Look up “Bethesda” in the Bible Dictionary. What does “Bethesda” mean?


BONUS: Find the Pool of Bethesda on the map of Jerusalem in your Bible Maps section (map 12?)

Day 5: Read John 5:10-23
13. In what way did Jesus’ healing on the Sabbath pose a threat to the Jews? Did Jesus’ answer regarding that healing comfort the Jews?



14. What did Jesus tell the healed man about sin when he met him later in the temple?



15. List three facts about himself Jesus attempted to teach in John 5:19-23.



Day 6: Read John 5:24-31, D&C 76:15-24
16. What did Christ promise any who hear his words and believe?



17. Give two ways Jesus’ prophecy in John 5:25 has been or will be fulfilled.



18. Read D&C 76:15-24. What was given to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon as they meditated on John 5:29?



Day 7: Read John 5:32-47 (with footnotes 34a, 36a)
19. How does the JST footnote for John 5:34a clarify the meaning of John 5:34?



20. List witnesses named by the Savior in John 5:33-45.




21. Why didn’t the people believe Jesus was the Son of God?

John 2-3

John 2-3 Study Guide, to be discussed September 23 (Sukkot)
Day 1: Read John 2:1-12 (with footnotes 1a, 4a)
[Note: a “firkin” equals about 10 gallons.]
1. How does the JST footnote for John 2:4a help the meaning of Jesus’ statement to his mother? How did Mary exhibit her faith?


2. Why was the governor or ruler of the feast impressed? How was something old made new?



3. According to John 2:11, who believed on Jesus because of this miracle?


BONUS: Find Cana, Capernaum, and Jerusalem on your Bible maps. How far is it from Cana to Capernaum? From Capernaum to Jerusalem?

Day 2: Read John 2:13-25 (with footnotes 17b, 24c), Psalm 69:9, Malachi 3:1-4
4. Give two reasons why Jesus drove the changers of money out of the temple. How was something old made new?



5. Why do you think the Jews asked for a sign?


6. Why didn’t Jesus commit or entrust himself to those who followed him at Jerusalem?


Day 3: Read John 3:1-7 9 (with footnote 3b), D&C 56:18, Alma 7:14, 23-24, 1 Peter 2:1-5
7. Who was Nicodemus? When did he visit Jesus? Upon what was his testimony based?



BONUS: Look up “Pharisees” in the Bible Dictionary. What did the Pharisees teach?



8. Use the footnote to John 3:3b to give another reading for “born again.” Compare John 3:3 with John 3:5. Jesus repeated his counsel, but also expanded it. List the differences in His warnings.



BONUS: Read D&C 56:18. Who will see the kingdom of God coming?



9. Read Alma 7:14, 23-24 and 1 Peter 2:1-5. List ways we can follow Christ’s counsel to “be born of water and of the Spirit” (John 3:5).



Day 4: Read John 3:8-13 (with footnotes 8a, 11b), Ecclesiastes 11:4-5
10. Rewrite John 3:8 in your own words. (See also Ecclesiastes 11:4-5.)



11. In John 3:11-12, Jesus used “ye” (second person plural) instead of “thou” (second person singular). What group might He have been addressing?


12. Why do you think Nicodemus was confused?


Day 5: Read John 3:14-17, Numbers 21:5-9, 1 Nephi 17:41, 2 Nephi 25:20
13. Read 1 Nephi 17:41, 2 Nephi 25:20 and Numbers 21:5-9. Why did so many Israelites perish in the wilderness? How was Christ “lifted up” like the brass serpent on Moses’ pole?


14. How did God illustrate his love for mankind?


15. What part of Jesus’ testimony indicates He is the Savior of all men, not just Israel’s Messiah?


Day 6: Read John 3:18-22 (with footnote 18c), Moses 5:13-15
16. Why do men NOT come unto Christ? (See also Moses 5:13-15.)



17. Why DO men come unto Christ? Why did Nicodemus have a hard time SEEING?



18. According to the JST footnote for John 3:18c, what bold statement did Jesus make in his dialogue with Nicodemus?


Day 7: Read John 3:23-36 (with footnotes 26a, 33a, 34b, 36a,c)
19. Find Aenon and Salim on your Bible maps. How did John the Baptist encourage his disciples to follow Christ?


20. If Jesus is the Bridegroom and John is the Bridegroom’s friend, who is the bride?


21. What reasons did John the Baptist give for the statement “He must increase, but I must decrease? (John 3:30)? How was something old made new?



BONUS: Read Mosiah 27:23-29, Moses 6:59-60 and Alma 5:14-26. How can we be “changed” into new creatures?

Simple Outline of John's Gospel

I. General Teachings To the World, John 1-12: covers 3 ½ years

A. Christ’s Personal Ministry, John 1-4

1. Prologue, John 1:1-18

2. First Miracle, John 2:1-11 – Water to wine

3. Nicodemus comes at night; Baptism, John 3

4. Woman at the well, John 4:1-30

5. Second Miracle, John 4:46-54 – Nobleman’s son

B. Christ’s Public Ministry, John 5-12

1. Third Miracle, John 5:1-47, Invalid healed

2. Fourth Miracle, John 6:1-14, Feeding the 5000 (1. I AM the Bread of Life, John 6:48)

3. Fifth Miracle, John 6:15-21, Walking on water

4. Sixth Miracle, John 9:1-41, Man born blind (2. I AM the Light of the World,http://scriptures.lds.org/en/john/8
)

5. Christ as Shepherd (3. I AM the Door, John 10:9; 4. I AM the Good Shepherd, John 10:11)

6. Seventh Miracle, John 11:1-57, Raising Lazarus (5. I AM the Resurrection and the Life, John 11:25)

II. Specific Teachings to Disciples, John 13-21: covers 1 week

A. Christ’s Private Ministry, John 13-17

1. Last Passover Discourse, John 13-17

a. Washing of feet; instruction on the Holy Ghost, John 13-16
(6. I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life, John 14:6; 7. I AM the True Vine, John 15:1)

2. Great Intercessory Prayer, John 17

B. The Lamb of God, Christ’s Death and Resurrection, John 18-21

1. Arrest and Trials, John 18

2. Crucifixion and Burial, John 19

3. The Resurrected Christ, John 20

4. Epilogue, “Feed my sheep,” John 21

John 1

Study Guide #1: John 1

IN-CLASS QUESTIONS
1. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “John, Gospel of,” found on page 715 in the Bible Appendix. What were John’s two objectives in writing his testimony? How is his point of view different from other gospel writers?


2. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “John” (p. 715). List three special events in the Savior’s ministry, at which John was present.


3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Gospels” (p. 682). What does the word “gospel” mean? To whom did John write, specifically? What percentage of John’s gospel is exclusive to his writing?


4. Read John 1:1-3 and JST John 1:1-3 (p. 807 in the Bible Appendix). List three truths, testified to by John about Jesus Christ in these opening verses. (X-Reference: Colossians 1:16-17 and Hebrews 1:1-4.)


5. Read D&C 93:6-10. What definition is given here for “the Word”? List the three prepositions used in D&C 93:10 to describe how all things were made.


6. Read Moses 1:31-32. What more do we learn about “the Word” from this verse?


QUESTIONS TO BE DISCUSSED SEPTEMBER 16
Day 1: Read John 1:4-5; JST John 1:4-5; D&C 45:26-29; D&C 88:49-50
1. What words are added to John 1:4-5 for clarification in the JST?


2. Read D&C 88:49-50. What does it mean to be “quickened” in and by God? (See also BD entry, “Quick,” p.756)



3. How many times is the word "light" used in John 1:4-9? Read D&C 45:26-29. Where can we find light today? Why do men and women reject the light?



Day 2: Read John 1:6-14, JST John 1:6-14; 1 Nephi 11:26-27
4. Read 1 Nephi 11:27. Which John is referred to in John 1:6-9? What phrases from JST John 1:6-10 add understanding to these verses?


5. In what way(s) does the world not recognize Jesus today?

6. According to John 1:12, what two things must we do to become sons and daughters of God?



BONUS: How was “the Word” made flesh?


Day 3: Read John 1:15-18, JST John 1:15-19, D&C 67:11
7. According to JST John 1:16, what is the fullness of the Son?


8. What word is used in place of “grace” in the JST of John 1:17?


9. Read JST John 1:19 and D&C 67:11. How do these scriptures clarify John 1:18?


Day 4: Read John 1:19-23, JST John 1:20-22; Malachi 3:1, D&C 65:1-6
10. What group did the Jews send from Jerusalem to question John the Baptist? What was the question they were sent to ask?


11. What was John’s answer? From D&C 65:1-6, list ways in which we can “make straight the way of the Lord” today.


12. Find the reference to the scripture in Isaiah John quoted in John 1:23.

Day 5: Read John 1:24-28, JST John 1:23-28, Luke 3:15-18, Bible Dictionary entry, “Elias” (paragraph 2, p.663)
13. How did John avoid taking any glory or honor for himself?


14. What important information is included in JST John 1:28 which is not in the KJV of either John or Luke?


15. Read the Bible Dictionary entry, “Elias,” part 2. What are the two kinds of Elias and what do they reflect?


Day 6: Read John 1:29-34, JST John 1:29-34, Matthew 3:13-17, Bible Dictionary entries “Dove, Sign of” (p.658) and “Lamb of God” (p.722)
16. Read Matthew 3:13-17. Why did Jesus request baptism of John?


17. How did John recognize Jesus as the Christ?


18. Read Bible Dictionary entry, “Lamb of God.” What did John the Baptist know about Jesus’ mission from the beginning?


Day 7: Read John 1:35-42 (with footnote 42a)
19. List two verbs describing what John the Baptist’s disciples did when they received his testimony of Christ. Who were these disciples?


20. With whom did Andrew share the good news first?


21. Read footnote 42a. What does this footnote add to your understanding of (a) the name “Cephas” and (b) the sacrifice which was required of Christ’s disciples?