John, Day 4 Readings

Jesus' Final Teachings  

Today's first reading is the beginning of Jesus' final teaching for his disciples on the night of his betrayal and arrest.  Knowing that the time had come, Jesus offered a final important lesson before explaining what was to happen that night.  Like a servant, he washed their feet as an example to serve each other.  Then, he gave them a final commandment: to love one another.

Read John 13:1-38  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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The second reading is another of Jesus' final lessons for his disciples.  Here Jesus emphasizes how close his relationship with the disciples is meant to be.  Like a growing plant, they are meant to be branches off of Jesus, the true vine.  If they are attached, they should grow healthy and bear fruit. If they are not attached to Jesus, they will be pruned.

After this, Jesus again encourages his disciples to persevere through oppression and persecution.  Referring to the closeness of the relationship between Jesus and his disciples, he reminds them that the world hated him before it hated them for following his example and teaching.

Read John 15:1-27  (NIV)   (NRSV)   (CEB)

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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety

If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read John 13-17 today.