Abide | 6 Months in the New Testament - Daily Readings From the Bible Sample

Prayer

You’ll take a few minutes to read through today’s passages in just a moment. Before you do, start with a simple prayer like this:

“God, I invite you into this moment and ask that you open my heart to Your Word. Help me to know you deeply through it, and let your truth transform my heart, mind, and soul today.”

Once you finish your reading, take a few moments to walk through P.R.A.Y.

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P - PAUSE to be still. Meditate on what you’ve just read, allowing it to sink in.

R - REFLECT on Scripture. What was God saying to you today through His Word? Speak aloud a verse to remember, and maybe even write it down.

A - ASK for God’s help. The challenge is to be with Jesus and become more like Him. How does today’s Word challenge you to do that?

Y - YIELD to His will in your life. God lovingly invites you into His beautiful plan for you, His church, and the world. Take up His invitation to live differently; understanding His plan is beyond anything we could ask or imagine.

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Some Context on John

Who Wrote the Book of John?

John’s Gospel account claims to be his eyewitness testimony. There are continuing debates about whether this refers to John, the son of Zebedee, or a different John who lived in Jerusalem and was later known as John the Elder.

Who was the Book of John written for?

Though less is known about the author of John, the intent of the book can be determined. John is written to second-generation believers as a way of strengthening their faith and affirming the deity of Christ. There are several key differences between John and the other three gospels that are well documented.

Context

The events described in John take place in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the surrounding occupied lands of the Greco-Roman empire during the early 1st century, between 30-40 C.E. John was likely composed between 70 and 130 C.E.

Literary Styles

The Book of John is written in narrative.

Key Themes

1. Discerning light from darkness and life from death
2. God’s love for his people’s unity throughout the world
3. The true humanity and divinity of Jesus
4. The choice to believe in God’s power over death

Structure

John is divided into five parts. John 1 introduces Jesus. 2-12 detail seven miraculous signs. 13-17 focus on the night before Jesus’ trial. 18-20 cover his arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection. And 21 concludes with the disciples’ ongoing mission.