Jesus’ first miracle was transforming water into wine at a wedding in Cana of Galilee (vv. 1-12). This was the first of seven miracles that John the apostle and author wrote about (Jesus did many more such works, see 21:25). John described this miracle as a “sign,” resulting in Jesus’ disciples believing him to be who he said he was (v. 11).
The Passover was a time when Israel remembered their deliverance from Egypt (Exod 12) and was one of three festivals Jews annually attended (Lev 23). While in Jerusalem Jesus forcibly removed those who turned the temple from a place of prayer and praise into an abusive and lucrative business (vv. 13-22). Though many “believed” in Jesus (v. 23), Jesus did not accept every profession as genuine (vv. 24-25).
Truths to Nail Down and Meditate On
- Miracles are supernatural acts of God that infrequently occurred in biblical history. Miracles served as supporting signs of God’s messengers and their message, verifying such were truly from him. Jesus’ miracles were not an end in themselves but were evidence that his message was true.
- The institutions and ordinances God ordains must serve God’s purposes. Believers have a responsibility to guard them against sinful twisting and perverting for whatever purpose.
- There is such a thing as false faith, and Jesus knows true from false believers (vv. 23-25). John’s gospel will detail what true faith looks like.
