Wednesday 18 June 2014

Background

Throughout John's Gospel the writer weaves themes of knowing andnot knowing, understanding and not understanding, of moving fromignorance to knowledge. Today's passage is no exception. Thomas,one of Jesus' disciples, is not prepared to take what he hears atface value. When Jesus states that there is a place being preparedin 'his Father's house' (v.2), perhaps the other disciples nod knowingly in the way thatpeople do when they want to look as though they understand. Thomas,however, does not pretend and his question leads to Jesus makingthe most extraordinary statement, "I am the way, and the truth, andthe life" (v. 6). Philip then joins in the questioning asJesus begins to talk about being one with the Father. As Philipstates "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied" (v. 8),we are reminded of Thomas's own declaration in John20:25 that he will only believe that Jesus is risen fromthe dead if he sees the holes in his hands and the wounds in hisside. John takes the reader beyond a simple understanding of'seeing is believing' to a deeper sight - a way of understandingthe world and our place in it in relation to God.

The insight to which Jesus is trying to lead his disciples is anunderstanding of the nature of Jesus' own relationship with God theFather - they are one: their actions and very existence cannot beseparated. More astonishing even than this, is that the disciples -those who recognise Jesus - are also caught up in that samerelationship with God. "Very truly, I tell you, the one whobelieves in me will also do the works that I do."

The one who believes is able to continue the work of Jesus. Thiscontinuing of work after Jesus has gone is an important theme inthis part of John's Gospel. Jesus is, through a number ofconversations (often called discourses), explaining to hisfollowers that he will not be with them much longer but that thework he has begun is not dependent on him alone. Those who havefaith in him and his teaching will be able to carry on bringingpeople to the knowledge of God and God's love. Those who, likeThomas and Philip, ask questions have a special place in this workbecause their questioning allows a development of insight andknowledge.

To Ponder

• Can you remember a time when asking a question about faith ledyou to a deeper understanding? What happened? And what impact doesit have on your faith and discipleship today?

• In what ways might you carry on the work of Jesus in your lifeand community today?

• How do you feel about the idea in verse 12 that those whobelieve in Jesus will 'do greater works' than Jesus himself?