Tuesday, July 26, 2011

The Third Day

In my Bible reading today, I read John chapter 2, a chapter that I have probably read at least 10 times in my life. But this time I noticed something new.

The transition between chapters 1 and 2 of John is extremely awkward. Chapter 1 ends with Jesus speaking to Nathanael, a newly met disciple. Chapter 2 begins, "And the third day a wedding took place in Cana..."

The third day of what!?!

John gives no clue what the third day means. The third day of the week? The third day of the month? The third day of his brand new job? He doesn't say. I don't think he cares, because for him the third day had a deeper significance.

Of course, Jesus was resurrected on the third day after his death. In the context of John chapter 2, the third day also signifies resurrection! The next several verses talk about Jesus changing the water into wine, a sign (verse 11) for changing death into life, which is resurrection.

John's gospel is a gospel all about life, and from the first verse of chapter 2, he sets forth this principle of resurrection.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

It really is amazing how we can read the same verses multiple times and still see and appreciate something new! Praise the Lord that His word is living and can be so fresh to us each time! :)

Anonymous said...

yes, Leon and Danielle, you're so right - we just "read the Bible" and take many things for granted... I am so grateful to the Lord for the ministry which opens the word both in its intrinsic significance, in the birds-eye view, and in its details! On the Third day - in the day of resurrection! Praise the Lord!

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