Today, we are going to continue our series on the “Sevens” of the gospel of John. We’ve looked at the seven “I Am” statements, seven witnesses to the identity of Jesus, seven signs that prove his power, seven proofs of his divinity, and seven feasts. Each one is carefully chosen by John to emphasize different aspects of Jesus and his great work of redemption for our sins.

Today, we will consider seven questions that are asked in John’s gospel. There are lots of questions in John but these seven emphasize something important about the identity and work of Jesus.

Our first question is found in John 12:21. Most modern translations make this a statement, but this is a question. These Gentiles have come up to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover. Some of these believing Gentiles have approached Philip and expressed their desire, “We want to see Jesus.” What a wonderful question. This gives us insight into their heart and faith. Do we want to see Jesus?

Our second question is found in John 12:34. This is the night before Jesus’ crucifixion while he is the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus prays for the Father to glorify his name to which, a voice from heaven proclaims, I have, and I will do it again. This prompts questions about who the Son of Man is and the possibility of crucifixion. It’s a powerful and important question because it challenges our preconceived notions about Jesus. Who is the Son of Man for you?

Our third question is found in John 13:6. Here Jesus, in dramatic fashion, begins to wash the feet of the disciples. Peter, in typical fashion, speaks up and refuses to allow such a thing. He says, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” I understand Peter’s hubris here. He knows Jesus’ identity as Lord and Christ. He cannot imagine the Lord stooping down to wash his feet. Yet, Jesus is teaching a lesson in humility and service to others. Would you wash the feet of others?

Our fourth question is found in John 14:5. In this well-known passage, Thomas asked an important question. Jesus has been speaking about his crucifixion and tells the disciples that they know where he is going. Thomas confused says, “how can we know the way?” Jesus is the only way to the Father, the embodiment of God’s truth, and the source of life eternal. Do you know the “Way?”

Our fifth question is found in John 14:8. Thomas’ question and Jesus’ explanation has prompted Philip to ask another important question, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” This question is akin to saying, just be straight with us and show us the Father. Philip, looking into the face of God himself, could not recognize it. How many times have you looked clearly at Jesus and His will for your life and walked away asking for more clarification? Can you see the Father?

Our sixth question is found in John 14:22. Jesus, speaking about the coming Holy Spirit as our comforter, tells the disciples that he will come to them and make his home with them. Judas, the Son of James, cannot conceive of Jesus coming to them secretly or in a way that is not physical. He asks, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus comes to his own, he dwells with us and in us. Do you have Jesus with you?

Our seventh and final question is found in John 16:18. Jesus speaking about his imminent departure from this realm tells the disciples that in a while he will depart but in a little while, he will return to them. This prompts the question, “What does he mean by ‘a little while?” Jesus is talking about his death, burial, and resurrection. He tells them that in a short time (3 days to be exact) he will return, and it will be the source of great joy that no one can take away from them. Do you have this great joy that no one can take away?

Let me encourage you to read these passages and ask yourself these powerful questions. Have a blessed day.