Day 17 - Drama Unfolding

     This chapter deals with the annual Feast of Booths and the temple in Jerusalem. Jesus again declares that He is from God. We see a unifying motif in the chapter which deals with the controversy regarding who Jesus is. Ryken tells us that as the scene unfolds, we eavesdrop several theories. Below is a rough structure of the text:

(1-9) Jesus initially declines the journey to Jerusalem
(10-13) Jesus does go to Jerusalem
(14-36) Jesus teaches and enters into debate and controversy in the temple area
(37-39) Jesus' self-declaration as the One who gives eternal life (drink to those who are thirsty)
(40-44) contrary and divisive opinions of the above claim
(45-52) religious leaders attempt to arrest Jesus

     Whew! This chapter is packed with drama! The climax of the chapter is in vv. 37-38 with Jesus' claim. This is a long reading, and I have trouble breaking it up since it is really all one scene. That being said, I will read the first 24 verses to my children today, and we will review a bit the next day. It is important even for the young ones to see Scripture as one whole story.

Reading: John 7:1-24

Memory passage: John 1:1-14 

Memory passage: Matthew 28:1-10 - I am going to begin reviewing the Resurrection passage with my children. We learned the story from Matthew, but you could also work any of the other Gospels. 

Songs: Wonderful Words of Life

Activity: I have added places to our board (pictures coming soon!). We have had Galilee and now we move Jesus to Jerusalem. 

Meditation: 1 John 5:20