Morning Message: First Amendment?

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "First Amendment?"
Written by: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

We are back in Romans today, and in spite of the title “First Amendment,” the message is not about the US Constitution or the Bill of Rights, but about the freedom we enjoy in Christ Jesus! If we were to “reverse think” the premises for the Bill of Rights, we might well find its basis right here in Romans 12, 13, and 14. Romans 12:1-2 may even supply a like-phrase to “American Exceptionalism!”

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Christ’s freedom is available to all!

Before departing Romans during the Resurrection season, these chapters underscore our actions and attitudes toward principalities and powers, toward the Church, and today concerning those that do not believe as we believe. Today in particular, we must acknowledge that all Christian denominations do not agree on a large number of issues, including God’s Doctrines of Faith, and man-made dogmas of faith.

The example of Eve while being tempted by the serpent comes to mind. Eve said in Genesis 3:3, "But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, ‘Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.’" Now, we know that Eve misquoted God by saying they should not touch the fruit of that one tree. God said nothing about touching the fruit, only that she and Adam should not eat the fruit of that tree.

(Laughingly) What if Adam had invented a ball game, and that one fruit was the only suitable object? Other fruits were oblong like bananas, or bell shaped like a pear? What about a nice ripe squishy tomato? Or the tiny cherries on that tree. None of those fruit would work well for say, baseball.

Eve’s practice of adding to God’s Word would deprive us of the delightful freedom to throw out the first pitch and play ball! But there’s more; changing God’s Word would violate another command of God in Revelation 22: 18 - 19, which bring long-term consequences to those who add to God’s Word or remove anything from it.

The best thing to do it to leave God’s Word as He is: perfect, complete, and sufficient in Himself: Live like Jesus lives, doing no harm to anyone.

Bobservations' Column:  Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

Romans 14:1-23 - "First Amendment?"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Romans 14 is a profound chapter in the New Testament that addresses the themes of Christian liberty, the importance of love and unity within the body of Christ, and the necessity of living out one's faith with a clear conscience. In this chapter, the Apostle Paul speaks to the Roman Christians about the need to accept one another despite differences in convictions, particularly concerning dietary laws and the observance of special days. This passage is as relevant today as it was in the first century, offering timeless principles for maintaining harmony and mutual respect within the Christian community.

In the first twelve verses of chapter 14 Paul has taught Christians in that church to stop passing judgments on each other and despising each other. Jewish Christians were condemning Gentiles Christians about eating unclean foods and not keeping the festivals of Moses. Gentile Christians were despising Jewish Christians for not eating with them, eating all foods, and for keeping the Sabbath and other feasts of Moses. They were to recognize that God had received them both and that God was the judge. Therefore, they were to welcome and accept one another, but not for the purpose of disputing over these things. Paul is going to pursue this thinking further as he directs these Christians concerning how to act over these divisive issues.

The church today ought to pay more attention to Paul’s exhortation. Rather than exercising—and parading—all our freedoms, we should be mindful of how the example of our life impacts others. Whether in word or deed, we can’t afford to put stumbling blocks or occasions to fall in someone else's way (Romans 14:13).

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference:

Receive (14:1) - The Greek word revers to personal and willing acceptance of another.

Weak in the Faith (14:1) - This characterizes those believers who are unable to let go of the religious ceremonies and rituals of their past. 

Doubtful Disputations (14:1) - The mature believer should not sit in judgment on the sincere but underdeveloped thoughts that govern the weak believer's conduct.

One Believes (14:2) - This refers to the strong believer, whose mature faith allows him to exercise his freedom in Christ by eating the inexpensive meat sold at the pagan meat markets - inexpensive because a worshiper had first offered it as a sacrifice to a pagan deity.

Eateth Herbs (14:2) - The strict diet that weak Jewish and Gentile believers ate to avoid eating meat that was unclean or may have been sacrificed to idols.

Despise...Judge (14:3) - Indicating a contempt for someone as worthless, who deserves only disdain and abhorrence.  "Judge" is equally strong and means "to condemn."  Paul uses them synonymously:  The strong hold the weak in contempt as legalistic and self-righteous; the weak judge the strong to be irresponsible at best and perhaps depraved.

To His Own Master He Stands or Falls (14:4) - How Christ evaluates each believer is what matters, and His judgment does not take into account religious tradition or personal preference (cf. 8:33, 34; 1 Corinthians 4:3-5).

Esteems One Day (14:5) - Though it was no longer required by God, the weak Jewish believer felt compelled to observe the Sabbath and other special days associated with Judaism (cf. Galatians 4:9, 10; Colossians 2:16, 17).  On the other hand, the weak Gentile wanted to separate himself from the special days of festivities associated with his former paganism because of its immorality and idolatry.

Esteems Every Day Alike (14:5) - The mature believers were unaffected by those concerns.

Let Each Be Fully Persuaded (14:5) -Each Christian must follow the dictates of his own conscience in matters not specifically commanded or prohibited in Scripture.  Since conscience is a God-given mechanism to warn, and responds to the highest standard of moral law in the mind (2:14, 15), it is not sensible to train yourself to ignore it.  Rather, respond to its compunctions, and as you mature, by learning more, your mind will not alert it to those things which are not essential.

To The Lord (14:6) - Whether weak or strong, the motive behind a believer's decisions about issues of conscience must be to please the Lord.

Lives to Himself...Dies to Himself (14:7) - The focus of Christian living is never oneself.  Everything we do should be to please the Lord (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:20; 10:31).

Lord of Both the Dead and the Living (14:9) - Christ died not only to free us from sin, but to enslave us to Himself (6:22); to establish Himself as Lord over the saints in His presence and those still on earth (cf. Philippians 2:11; 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 17:14; 19:16).

Your Brother (14:10) -A fellow believer in Christ.

The Judgment Seat of Christ (14:10) - The preferred rendering is "the judgment seat of God."  Every believer will give an account of himself, and the Lord will judge the decisions he made including those concerning issues of conscience.  That verdict is the only one that matters.

It Is Written (14:11) - Paul quoting Isaiah 45:23; 49:18.

Judge This Rather (14:13) - The same Greek word translated "judge" is here translated "resolve."  In verses 3, 10, 13a the meaning is negative:  "to condemn."  Inverse 13b, the meaning is positive: "to determine to make a careful decision."  The point of Paul's play on words is that instead of passing judgment on their brothers, they should use their best judgment to help fellow believers.

Stumbling Block (14:13) - Anything a believer does - even though Scripture may permit it - that causes another to fall into sin (1 Corinthians 8:9).

Unclean (14:14) - The Greek word originally meant "common" but came to mean "impure" or "evil."

Grieved (14:15) -The Greek word refers to causing pain or distress.  A weak believer may be hurt when he sees a brother do something he believes is sinful.  

Love (14:15) - Love will ensure that the strong Christian is sensitive and understanding of his brother's weaknesses (1 Corinthians 8:8-13).

Destroy (14:15) - Refers to complete devastation.  In the NT, it is often used to indicate eternal damnation.  In context, however, it refers to a serious devastation of one's spiritual growth.

Your Good (14:16) - The rightful exercise of one's Christian liberty.

Spoken of as Evil (14:16) - To blaspheme.  When unbelievers see a Christian abusing his freedom in Christ and harming a weaker brother, they will conclude that Christianity is filled with unloving people, which reflects badly on God's reputation.

Eating and Drinking (14:17) - These are non-essentials and external observances.

Righteousness (14:17) - Holy, obedient living.

Peace (14:17) -The loving tranquility, produced by the Spirit, that should characterize believers' relationships with God and each other (Galatians 5:22).

Joy in the Holy Ghost (14:17) - Another part of the Spirit's fruit, this describes an abiding attitude of praise and thanksgiving regardless of circumstances, which flows from one's confidence in God's sovereignty (Galatians 5:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6).

Approved by Men (14:18) - After a careful examination.  Christians are under the microscope of a skeptical world that is assessing how they live with and treat one another.

All Things...Pure (14:20) - Discretionary liberties which God has given to believers and are good in themselves.

Who East With Offense (14:20) - Using God-given liberties carelessly and selfishly and offending weaker brethren.

Whatever is Not of Faith (14:24) - The thoughts and actions that the conscience condemns.

Morning Message: Lazarus and Didymus

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Lazarus and Didymus"

Written By:  Pastor Bob Lawrenz

It was about ten days ago that Christians around the world acknowledged Good Friday. Quite literally, “The Word of God” was executed and put to death. I use that phrasing because of what John wrote: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).

All the Old Testament was for the most part nullified with its Seven Covenants. God’s Covenants with man worked for only a few, and not at all for those who received His promises. Then the night before He died, Jesus made a New Covenant. The old ordinances of the Levitical Law were made of no effect, and were replaced with a new one, containing just one rule:

"Love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12).

Do not eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil? Ineffective! The Ten Commandment? Didn’t work out! The 213 Ordinances of the Levitical Law? Kaput! Mankind surely must frustrate God! Each of these commands, ordinances, and rules were God’s Word! And when the Father sent His only begotten Son to fulfill all of them, they killed even Him! (Parable of the Vinedressers - Matthew 21:33-41)

The Word of God left us with a New Covenant, to just love one another.
The 12 Apostles and other Disciples were sent out with a commission to spread this New Covenant, truly Good News!

God’s Son paid the price so that our sins were covered, and He could afterwards bear to be found in our presence, and we in His. Religion and worship changed. And Jesus proved it by rising from the dead, and continued teaching for another 40 days after His Resurrection! He revealed Himself as alive to many and continued His teachings.

From Colossians 2:14 -

“ . . . blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His Cross.”

Bobservations' Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

John 20:24 - 21:14 - Lazarus and Didymus

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

Last time in John 20 we were with the disciples on Sunday evening a week after Jesus was raised from the dead. Like He had done for the other disciples on resurrection Sunday, Jesus showed His hands and side to “doubting Thomas” and called him to stop unbelieving but to believe. Thomas immediately responded to Jesus, “My Lord and my God” (John 20.28).

Thomas’ profession of faith is the climax of Christology in John’s Gospel. He wrote this accurate testimony so that you will come to the same conclusion as Thomas and make the same profession of faith. That is what John urges us to do at the end of John 20, “And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written 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). Seems like a good ending for John’s Gospel. But it doesn’t end there. So we come to John 21.

After the highpoint of Jesus’ death and resurrection, John 21 almost seems like a letdown. How does this last chapter fit? The answer is that John 21 provides an epilogue to balance the prologue, to tie up loose ends, and to point the disciples and the church forward. You might say it answers the question, “What now?”

John’s prologue (John 1:1-18) connects Jesus Christ to the eternity of God and the beginning of creation; now his epilogue points forward to the continuing work of Jesus through the church.

John 21 addresses some questions that would be left unanswered had the Gospel ended after John 20:31, such as: 

• What was the relationship of the Lord Jesus to the disciples after His resurrection? (John 21:1-14 answers this).
• What happened with Peter after his denial of the Lord? (John 21:15-19).
• What about the return of Christ? (John 21:20-23).
• What about all the other things that Jesus did? 
• Why didn’t John and the other writers give a more complete biography of Jesus? (John 21:24-25)

So John is tying up some loose ends to complete the story and answer some remaining questions. And at the same time, he is showing us the risen Christ in relation to His disciples and through them how He relates to us. Today we will look at John 21:1-14 when Jesus appears to some disciples at the Sea of Galilee.

John sets the scene for us by saying, “After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias [that is, the Sea of Galilee], and in this way He showed Himself . . .”

We see our Risen Lord watching over His disciples, revealing Himself to them, providing for them and calling them to dine with Him.

How does the risen Lord Jesus relate to His followers? He provides for them and serves them. This is the blessing Christ provides for us. Jesus has the same care for us that He did for the disciples. He will provide for our needs, and we will have sweet fellowship with Him.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

Sea of Tiberias (21:1) - The Sea of Tiberias and the Sea of Galilee are the same body of water. The Sea of Galilee is also known as Lake Tiberias, or sometimes Lake Kinneret. The term "Sea of Tiberias" became more prevalent after the city of Tiberias was established on its western shore in the first century CE.

Simon Peter (21:2) - After His resurrection, Jesus specifically named Peter as one who needed to hear the good news (Mark 16:7). And, repeating the miracle of the large catch of fish, Jesus made a special point of forgiving and restoring Peter and re-commissioning him as an apostle (John 21:6, 15-17).

Together (21:2) - Seven of the disciples were involved, the number possibly representing all disciples of the Lord as "fishers of men."  The number seven has, of course, symbolized completeness ever since God established the seven-day week in commemoration of the completion of His week of Creation.  The Great Commission had now been given, and it would soon be time for the disciples and all those who would follow them to go into all the world as "fishers of men" (see Matthew 4:19).  

I am Going Fishing (21:3) - The most reasonable explanation for Peter and the others to go to Galilee in order to fish was that they went in obedience to the Lord's command to meet Him in Galilee (Matthew 28:16).  Peter and the others occupied themselves with fishing, which was their former livelihood, while they awaited Jesus' appearance.

Multitude of Fishes (21:6) - This would remind them immediately of their experience three years earlier, when Jesus had similarly given them a miraculous catch of fishes, and told them that they would "catch men" in the future (Luke 5:1-10).

That Disciple Whom Jesus Loved (21:7) - John immediately recognized that the stranger was the risen Lord. 

Two Hundred Cubits (21:8) - Approximately 300 feet from the shore.

Fish . . . and Bread (21:9) - The disciples had not caught the fish that Jesus had cooked for them.  Just as Jesus turned water into wine, fed the thousands on 5 loaves and two fish, He once again miraculously provides a breakfast for His disciples.

One Hundred and Fifty-Three (21:11) -John's recording of the precise number reinforces the fact that he was an eyewitness author of the events he recorded (1 John 1:1-4).  Jesus' action here in providing the fish also indicated that He would still provide for His disciples' needs (see Philippians 4:19; Matthew 6:25-33).

The Third Time (21:14) - The reference to the "third time" revers only to the appearances reported in John's Gospel, i.e., the first being in 20:19-13 and the second in 20:26-29.

Morning Message: Jesus Is Our Victor!

Bobservations' Column

Titled - "Jesus Is Our Victor!"
Written By: Pastor Bob Lawrenz

We open today with the first of the Messianic Psalms, Psalm 2. In twelve short verses it covers the history of God and His people. It is truly The Psalm of the King: His rejection; His establishment of His Kingdom; and finally, His reigning over the nations. It does not name Him, but it does describe His ability to bring the Will of God to pass. From the early chapters of the Bible and His promise of a Redeemer, all the way through the redemptive process to a new sinless heaven and sinless Earth in Revelation, God remains in control to make sure every one of Earth inhabitants hears of Him and has the choice of Eternal Life with Him.

The Kings of the Earth rage because of their contempt for a Spiritual Authority, that is invisible. But even in mankind’s own corruption, the Psalmist leaves us with hope as we place our trust in God’s rejected Redeemer. We basically live on God’s Created sandbox; therefore, He alone makes the rules and suggests quite strongly that we abide by them. All He asks is that we believe in His Son, placing our hope, trust, and faith in Him.

Resurrection Sunday marks a day when Jesus’ work of Redemption is complete. The payment for sin was paid on Friday past, and His victory over death becomes evident in today’s Gospels. All four of the Writers of the Gospels cover the day, and this miraculous and Holy event. Just a few weeks ago He had raised a dead man up from his grave. And today, on the third day after His own execution, Jesus raises Himself up by the power given Him by God.

None of the Gospel writers cover all the events of the day, but as we read John’s record of it, it is truly a most personal view of the day’s happenings. His own personal relationship with Jesus comes through his descriptions of what impacted Him on that glorious day.

You are encouraged to read the other three Gospel records too, in order to have the full record of the day’s events: Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24. They enhance one another, giving a fuller view of the “who, what, when, and where.”

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness," - 2 Timothy 3:16

Bobservations' Column: Audio Version

Sunday Morning Message:

John 20:1-31 - "Jesus Is Our Victor!"

Summary/Additional Commentary & Definitions:

John 20 in the Bible recounts the events following Jesus' crucifixion, focusing on the discovery of the empty tomb, Jesus' appearances to Mary Magdalene and the disciples, and the journey of Thomas from doubt to faith. The chapter emphasizes the eyewitness testimony of the apostles, confirming Jesus' resurrection and establishing him as the Messiah.

Now the night has gone, and the bright dawn has burst – for Jesus has risen from the dead! With the same physical body that Joseph had placed in tomb, bearing the marks of the spear in his side and the nails in His hands and feet, Jesus appeared to His disciples. And just as unbelief found its culmination in His cross, so also, faith reaches its climax at the sight of the empty tomb and in the vision of the risen Lord! As we review the scenes which are painted by John in this chapter, we should notice that each one presents undeniable evidence to the fact of the resurrection; and we would also do well to observe the faith that each of these scenes inspired in those who were favored with the privilege of beholding it.

Jesus's resurrection is considered a definitive victory over death, demonstrating his divine power and the triumph of God's love. It is the foundation of Christian faith and the promise of eternal life.  The resurrection assures believers of forgiveness of sins and the hope of their own future resurrection, ultimately offering a victory over death's grip.

To the Believer, the resurrection provides hope, joy, and peace, enabling us to live with assurance and purpose. It also empowers us to live a life that reflects the resurrected Christ.

Sunday Morning Audio Message:

Key Words and Definitions with Reference: 

First Day of the Week (20:1) - A reference to Sunday.  From then on, believers set aside Sunday to meet and remember the marvelous Resurrection of the Lord (see Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2).  It became known as the Lord's Day (Revelation 1:10).

Mary Magdalene Went to the Tomb (20:1) - Perhaps the reason why Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene was to demonstrate grace by His personal, loving faithfulness to someone who formerly had a sordid past; but clearly also because she loved Him so dearly and deeply, that she appeared before anyone else at the tomb.  Her purpose in coming was to finish the preparation of Jesus' body for burial by bringing more spices to anoint the corpse (Luke 24:1).

Other Disciple, whom Jesus Loved (20:2) - This is John, the author of this book.  

They have Taken (20:2) - Though Jesus had predicted His Resurrection numerous times, it was more than they could believe at this point.  It would take His showing Himself alive to them by many "infallible proofs" (Acts 1:3) for them to believe.

Saw the Linen Cloths Lying (20:5-7) - A contrast existed between the resurrection of Lazarus (11:44) and that of Jesus.  While Lazarus came forth from the grave wearing his grave clothes, Jesus' body, though physical and material, was glorified and was now able to pass through the grave clothes much in the same way that He later appeared in the locked room (see vs 19, 20).  From outside, John can see the strips of linen which were used to wrap Jesus' body (John 19:40). This is likely a confusing sight: John would likely wonder why the grave clothes were left behind, but the body taken away. It won't be until John notices another detail, described in the next verse, that his mind snaps to the truth: Jesus is alive (John 20:7–8).

Linen Cloths . . . Napkin (Handkerchief) (20:5-7) - The cloth designated for Jesus' face is placed off to the side, away from the other burial clothes. It's not casually thrown or crumpled, either. It's been folded. That, also, would be confusing if this was the work of grave robbers. To strip the body naked before taking it would be bizarre (John 20:6). Taking the time and effort to fold the face cloth would be even stranger. All appearances indicated that no one had taken the body, but that it had moved through the cloths and left them behind in the tomb.

Other Disciple (20:8) - John saw the grave clothes and was convinced by them that He had risen.  Despite Jesus' many predictions (John 2:19–22; Mark 9:31; Luke 18:33), the disciples are still having a difficult time understanding the idea of His death and resurrection (John 20:9). With two thousand years of hindsight, we might find that strange. In the moment, however, it's not clear what has happened. Seeing the folded cloth immediately tells John that it was Jesus—alive—who put it there.

Knew Not the Scriptures (20:9) - Neither Peter nor John understood that Scripture said Jesus would rise (Psalm 16:10).  This is evident by the reports of Luke (24:25-27, 32, 44-47).  Jesus had foretold His Resurrection (John 2:17; Matthew 16:21; Mark 8:31; 9:31; Luke 9:22), but they wouldn't accept it (Matthew 16:22; Luke 9:44-45).  By the time John wrote this Gospel, the church had developed an understanding of the OT Prediction of Messiah's resurrection.

Weeping (20:11-13) - Mary's sense of grief and loss may have driven her ack to the tomb.  She apparently had not crossed paths with Peter or John and, thus did not know of Jesus' resurrection (see v. 9).

Two Angels (20:12) - Luke (24:4) describes both.  Mathhew (28:2, 3) and Mark (16:5) report only one.  John's reason for the mention of angels is to demonstrate that no grave robbers took the body. This was an operation of the power of God.

Knew Not That It Was Jesus (20:14) - Those prior details are crucial in understanding why Mary did not recognize Jesus at first. Her last glimpse of Him was a mutilated corpse (John 19:1–4, 18, 34). Modern entertainment includes "makeover" shows where someone is given a new hairstyle, clothes, and makeup, and family members note the difference. A common remark in those shows is "I almost didn't recognize you!" Mary, in state of mourning and confusion, eyes blurred with tears, and in dim light (John 20:1) would never have assumed the figure standing nearby was the same person she saw mangled and buried just a few days before.

Mary! (20:16) - Whatever the reason for her failure to recognize Jesus, the moment He spoke the single word, " Mary," she immediately recognized Him.  This is reminiscent of Jesus' words "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me."

Do Not Cling to Me, For I Have Not Yet Ascended (20:17) - Mary was expressing a desire to hold on to His physical presence for fear that she would once again lose Him.  Jesus' reference to His ascension signifies that He would only be temporarily with them and though she desperately wanted Him to stay, He could not.  Jesus was with them only for forty more days, and then He ascended (Acts 1:3-11).  After He went to the Father, He sent the Holy Spirit ("The Helper") so they would not feel abandoned.

My Brethren (20:17) - Disciples have been called "servants" or "friends" (15:15), but not "brothers," until here.  Because of Jesus' work on the Cross in place of the sinner, this new relationship to Christ was made possible (Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 3:26, 27; Ephesians 1:5; Hebrews 2:10-13).

The Doors Were Shut (20:19) - The Greek word indicates the doors were locked for fear of the Jews. Since the authorities had executed their leader, they reasonably expected that Jesus' fate could be their own.

Peace Be Unto You (2:19) - Jesus' greeting complements His "It is finished," for His work on the Cross accomplished peace between God and His people (Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:14-17).

He Showed Them His Hands...Side (20:20) - Jesus proved that He who appeared to them was the same One who was crucified.

Receive Ye the Holy Ghost (20:22) - When God created man, He "breathed" a spirit into Adam (Genesis 2:7). The Greek term for "spirit" can also be used to refer to wind or breath. Jesus' action here evokes the original creation of humanity and fulfils part of His promise to send the Holy Spirit (John 15:26–27). This will be crucial to their mission, though the full indwelling of the Spirit will not happen until Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4).  The primary role of the Holy Spirit is guidance (John 14:26). That especially involves matters of Jesus' teaching (John 16:13; Luke 12:12). That is one reason Jesus' references to the Spirit are often tied to the idea of "peace." This context is also extremely important for understanding Jesus' next remark, about the forgiveness of sins (John 20:23).

Whosoever Sins Ye Remit (20:23) - It is this context which frames Jesus' remark about forgiveness: this declaration comes because these men are being reminded and guided by the Spirit of God. In no sense, at all, does Christ mean that forgiveness of sin is being determined by the disciples, or that they are choosing whether to absolve others of sin. The original Greek language uses more easily defined tenses, so it comes across more clearly, emphasizing that such sins "have already been forgiven" or "have already been retained." Guided by the truth of the Holy Spirit and in keeping with His truth, these men will be able to accurately declare whether others are abiding by those truths.

But Thomas (20:24, 25) - Thomas has already been portrayed as loyal, but pessimistic.  Jesus did not rebuke Thomas for his failure, but instead compassionately offered him proof of His Resurrection.  Jesus lovingly met him at the point of his weakness.  Thomas' actions indicated that Jesus had to convince the disciples rather forcefully of His Resurrection.

My Lord and My God! (20:28) - With these words, Thomas declared his firm belief in the Resurrection and, therefore, the deity of Jesus the Messiah and Son of God (Titus 2:13).  This is the greatest confession a person can make.  Thomas' confession functions as the fitting capstone of John's purpose in writing.

Blessed Are They That Have Not Seen (20:29) - The comment Jesus makes here points out that most people will never have the experiences which these men enjoyed. As the disciples go out to preach the gospel, they will be speaking to people who will not see Jesus in person. They will preach to those without the benefit of direct, personal encounters with God. Jesus pronounced a special blessing on those who believe without having Thomas' privilege (1 Peter 1:8, 9).

But These Are Written (20:31) - The goal and the purpose for which John wrote the Gospel.