<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Submission – Faith Trekker</title> <atom:link href="https://www.philbickel.com/tag/submission/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.philbickel.com</link> <description>Exploring God's Colossal Promises</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 30 Aug 2019 21:14:58 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <image> <url>https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-FT-logo-3.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1</url> <title>Submission – Faith Trekker</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">68675342</site> <item> <title>John 13 – Love Serves</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john13a/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john13a/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2019 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dirty jobs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[discipleship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[evangelism]]></category> <category><![CDATA[foot washing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John 13]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pecking order]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relationship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[servant]]></category> <category><![CDATA[servanthood]]></category> <category><![CDATA[serve]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wash]]></category> <category><![CDATA[washing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[washing feet]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=2040</guid> <description><![CDATA[1 Corinthians 13 waxes eloquent about love, but John 13 waxes practical about love. Jesus washes feet and calls us to imitate Him, but we would much rather wash our hands of some people than wash their feet. How can we overcome our distaste for foot-washing?]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color has-medium-font-size">1 Corinthians 13 waxes eloquent about love. John 13 waxes practical about love.</p> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:auto 45%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="450" height="253" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/04_Jesus_Washes_Feet_1920.jpg?resize=450%2C253&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-2043" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/04_Jesus_Washes_Feet_1920.jpg?w=450&ssl=1 450w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/04_Jesus_Washes_Feet_1920.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap"> Thirteen men are gathered in an upper room for the Passover meal. <strong>The next step in Jesus’ mission on Earth requires a towel, a basin of water, and the humility to use them.</strong> Imagine the disciples’ shock as the Son of God stoops to wash their feet, a chore they should have volunteered for. Peter objects: “No way!” Jesus responds, <em>“Unless I wash you, you have no part in me”</em> (John 13:8 NIV). </p> </div></div> <p><strong>What is the most lowly, dirty task someone has done for you?</strong> How hard was it to receive their kindness? Compare that act of compassionate service to what Jesus did for you during His unjust trial and gory crucifixion. Only because the suffering of Jesus washes away the grime of our crimes do we have a part in Him. Thank You, humble Lord Jesus!</p> <p>Jesus explains: <em>“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet constantly. I have set you an example that you should keep on doing as I have done for you”</em> (John 13:14-15 paraphrased). <strong>Jesus is talking about more than feet. He means we should serve one another in all kinds of subservient ways — again and again. </strong> The Savior who washed away our sins is calling us to do whatever is needed, whenever, for whomever. </p> <p>Really? <strong>We would much rather wash our hands of some people than wash their feet.</strong> The higher our status, the more reluctant we are to accept a foot-washing gig. We tell ourselves, “If I serve, I’ll probably get stuck with this demeaning job forever, and everyone will think I’m a <strong>loser</strong>.” </p> <p>However, the Living God views everything <strong>the total reverse of normal human pecking order!</strong> God is a Servant, and His children reflect His servant nature. Jesus knows that according to our selfish human nature we don’t want to serve and we can’t do it on our own. He came both to save us and to equip us with His humility, so that we can be <strong>winners</strong> who love one another as He loved us.</p> <p><strong>So, when we feel grumpy and reluctant, let’s lay aside our lame excuses and imitate Jesus,</strong> forgetting about ourselves and focusing on serving others. In a few hours our selfish gloom will evaporate like fog, and we’ll clearly see the community of love the Lord Jesus came to establish among us.</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>When have you followed Jesus’ example of humble service? How did your obedience affect you and the person you served?</li><li>When have you seen an opportunity to serve, but shrank from it? Offer that smudge on your character to Jesus for Him to wash away.</li><li>How can you follow Jesus’ example today? Put it on your To Do list. What if your To Do list always had a category called Foot Washing? </li></ol> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #22 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>A catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> <p class="has-small-font-size">Photo credit: The foot-washing image © LUMO project (Big Book Media) and distributed for free download, under license exclusively by <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="FreeBibleImages (opens in a new tab)" href="http://www.freebibleimages.org" target="_blank">FreeBibleImages</a> for teaching purposes only. All rights reserved. Used by permission.</p> </div></div> </body>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john13a/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2040</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Miracles Break the Rules</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john9/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john9/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blind]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blindman]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[discipleship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[evangelism]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[guilt]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John 9]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[light]]></category> <category><![CDATA[light of the world]]></category> <category><![CDATA[man born blind]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Pharisees]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relationship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[religion police]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=1714</guid> <description><![CDATA[Miracles are messy and controversial. In John 9, after Jesus heals a blind beggar, the poor guy gets into hot water with the Religion Police. Will we avoid miracles, or will we seek what Jesus is doing today without concern that His miracles will rock the boat?]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-image-fill" style="grid-template-columns:auto 43%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media" style="background-image:url(https://www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/02_Jesus_Blind_Man_Pharisees_1024-1024x768.jpg);background-position:14.904366287530637% 51.61976533777574%"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/02_Jesus_Blind_Man_Pharisees_1024.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1716" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">After Jesus heals a blind beggar, the poor guy catches heat from the Religion Police. John 9 enlightens us about life in Christ.</p> <p><strong><em>Fullness.</em></strong> The blindman dwells in darkness. Light is another way of referring to God’s fullness. The blind beggar had not a glimmer of hope, until he overhears the disciples talking with Jesus about him. (John 9:1-5) Jesus does not condemn him. Jesus calls Himself the Light of the world. Had the blindman ever heard such words? Never! So, they ignite in him a spark of hope.</p> </div></div> <p><strong><em>Relationship.</em></strong> In John 9:4, Jesus adds a new wrinkle to His repeated claim that He is doing the works of God the Father. He says: “<em>We</em> must do the works,” including the disciples and, by extension, present-day disciples like you and me. </p> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:33% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/05_Jesus_Blind_Man_Pharisees_1024.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1718" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p><strong><em>Model</em></strong><em>.</em> The Father commands every strange detail of the healing miracle described in John 9:6-7: spitting, mud making, smearing the mud on the man’s eyes, telling him to navigate to the pool of Siloam, and even the Sabbath day timing is the Father’s idea. Every detail is contrary to a rule of cleanliness, medicine, etiquette, or religion. Miracles of healing are often contrary to our expectations and rules of decorum. They don’t fit into our churchy boxes. Why does the blind man cooperate? Because of the kindness and hope expressed by the Light of the world (vv. 2-5).</p> </div></div> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 41%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/20_Jesus_Blind_Man_Pharisees_1024.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1720" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p><strong><em>Pushback.</em></strong> As the story progresses, the Pharisees drag the guy into court, accuse Jesus (vv. 24 & 29), and berate the man (vv. 28 & 34). Despite the angry arguments of these learned and religious Pharisees, the man recognizes that Jesus is godly and that God hears Him (vv. 31-33). The conclusion to the story in vv. 39-41 is ironic and powerful. <em>Those who would oppose Christ and His disciples, are blind, so profoundly blind that they are not able to see the Light of the World. And therefore, their guilt remains.</em></p> </div></div> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>Miracles are messy and controversial. Will we avoid miracles, or will we seek what Jesus is doing today without concern that His miracles will rock the boat</strong>?</p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #13 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>A catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook by Phil Bickel, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> <p>Photos courtesy of www.LumoProject.com, used with permission.</p> </div></div> </body>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.philbickel.com/ff-john9/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1714</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Hiking with Jesus</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john8b/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john8b/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jul 2019 09:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[discipleship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[know the truth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[light]]></category> <category><![CDATA[light of the world]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relationship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[remain]]></category> <category><![CDATA[remain in me]]></category> <category><![CDATA[remain in my word]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stoning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[truth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[truth will set you free]]></category> <category><![CDATA[walk in the light]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=1677</guid> <description><![CDATA[When Jesus invites us to walk with Him, it's not for a stroll in the park but a march of endurance. Yet He promises we "will never walk in darkness," and "the truth will set us free." (John 8:12 & 32) Jesus teaches us how to find the strength for the journey in John 8. ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:auto 24%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1013" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Autumn-Road.jpg?resize=1013%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1683" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">John 8 enhances our understanding of walking with Jesus Christ. Jesus invites: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Light is another way to speak about fullness. Walking is often a metaphor of living. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>Thus, Jesus is encouraging us to daily possess light and life in Him.</strong> </p> </div></div> <p class="has-drop-cap">Jesus affirms, “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me” (John 8:28-29). How amazing — Jesus get His words from God the Father! John 8 features a heated debate between Jesus and His detractors. Every round includes: </p> <ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Attack: “Jesus, you can’t be speaking for God!”</li><li>Defense: “I speak the words of the Father!” </li></ul> <p class="has-drop-cap">The pressure increases each round and leads to Christ’s opponents grabbing rocks to bombard Him. Being the Son of God is a dangerous job, but Jesus never backs down. How far is He willing to go in obedience to His Father? Even to being lifted up on the cross. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>No wonder He calls us to model His behavior by taking up our crosses and following Him.</strong> </p> <p class="has-drop-cap">In John 8:31-36, Jesus urges those who believe in Him to remain in His word. The Greek verb Jesus used is <em>meno.</em> It means to remain, abide, stand fast, endure<em>. </em>When we remain in Christ’s word, we will truly be His disciples, not play actors or counterfeits. We will possess God’s truth, and His truth will possess us. As a result, we won’t be slaves to sins, but sons and daughters of God, who remain in His household forever. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>Thus to remain in Jesus’ word is all about relationship with God.</strong> <strong>Do you desire to remain in this relationship fully and walk with Jesus perpetually? Or are partially and occasionally good enough? Shouldn’t we aim to be “free indeed” (v. 36) as often as possible?</strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #12 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>The catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook by Phil Bickel, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> </div></div> </body>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john8b/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1677</post-id> </item> <item> <title>John 7 — Dueling Game Plans</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john7a/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john7a/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 08 Jul 2019 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[discipleship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[evangelism]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[game plan]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pushback]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relationship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wisdom]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=1579</guid> <description><![CDATA[Do you have a game plan for your life? Will you follow God’s path or limit yourself to human wisdom? In John 7:1-10, Jesus addresses this issue. No matter the threats and danger, Jesus never backs down. He refuses to be less than who He really is — the Son of God sent to do and say only what the Father shows Him. How about us? Which game plan will we seek to follow? ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:auto 35%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="300" height="200" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Game-Plan.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1581" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color has-drop-cap has-medium-font-size"><strong>Do you have a game plan for your life? Will you follow God’s path or limit yourself to human wisdom? In John 7:1-10, Jesus addresses this issue by means of two building blocks of daily life in Christ: <em>Pushback</em> and <em>Model.</em></strong></p> </div></div> <p><strong><em>Pushback</em></strong>. The Judean leaders are waiting to capture Jesus and liquidate Him. Even Jesus’ own brothers get into the act, urging Him, “Get out there and make yourself famous, Bro!” Their motives are not pure, because they do not believe in Him. They neither admire Him nor approve of His career as a Rabbi. They are cajoling Jesus, prodding Him to step into danger, even death. Perhaps they felt toward Jesus, as ten older brothers centuries earlier had felt toward their brother Joseph, the dreamer (Genesis 37).</p> <p><strong><em>Model.</em></strong> Jesus’ conversation with His brothers illustrates the question He must have faced constantly: <strong>Will I follow My Father’s game plan, or human wisdom?</strong></p> <p>In every field of human endeavor, we have developed logical processes, modes of operation, paths of action, and corporate rules. <strong>We consider our time-tested rules and methods the best.</strong> We pass on our knowledge in universities and technical colleges, where we bequeath academic degrees and certify technicians. So, it’s not surprising that the advice of Jesus’ brothers reflects common sense and worldly smarts about how to achieve fame. </p> <p><strong>But Jesus does not function like normal people,</strong> does He? And as His followers, we will often face the same dilemma: to follow the Father’s game plan, or human wisdom. Sometimes they may be the same, but often they are not.</p> <p>Let’s imitate the wisdom that Jesus models for us. Despite all the pushback, <strong>Jesus never backs down</strong>. No matter how much He is questioned, accused, and is in danger of arrest or stoning, <strong>Jesus refuses to be less than who He is</strong> — the Messiah, the Son of God sent by the Father to do and say only what the Father gives Him. Jesus never allows His identity to be fractionalized. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>This raises questions for us to consider: Will we back down? Will we define ourselves as less than children of God, who are sent as Jesus was sent (John 1:12; 20:21)? Fullness or fraction?</strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #8 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>A catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook by Phil Bickel, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> </div></div> </body>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john7a/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1579</post-id> </item> <item> <title>John 6 — Discipleship Is Relationship</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john6/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john6/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jul 2019 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[collision]]></category> <category><![CDATA[discipleship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[evangelism]]></category> <category><![CDATA[flunk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John 6]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relationship]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=1558</guid> <description><![CDATA[Are you a Christian or a disciple? Is there a difference? Discipleship is Relationship! Discipleship is Rabbi Jesus walking with us through every event of our lives. Are you all in?]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right" style="grid-template-columns:auto 19%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="401" height="425" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Relationship.jpg?resize=401%2C425&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1560" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Relationship.jpg?w=401&ssl=1 401w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Relationship.jpg?resize=283%2C300&ssl=1 283w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 401px) 100vw, 401px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color has-drop-cap"><strong>The prominent building block of John 6 is a relationship called discipleship. </strong> Jesus was a Jewish Rabbi who had hundreds of disciples. How did someone qualify for this unique relationship? </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color">If we think Jesus selected only MVP candidates to be disciples, we’ll assume that we are not in their league. However, the first disciples were no more qualified than you and I. </p> </div></div> <p>You see, most of Jesus’ followers had <strong>already</strong> <strong>flunked</strong> Disciple Training School. Every Jewish boy was taught to read and study the Bible, and the sharpest knives in the drawer advanced to become disciples of a rabbi. As for the dull knives, they learned a trade and found a job. </p> <p>Jesus broke with tradition by recruiting His disciples from among the dull knives: fishermen, a tax collector, a freedom fighter. Other disciples were women, which broke even more with custom. So whether <strong>failures or females</strong>, every last one of them was utterly astonished that Rabbi Jesus desired a disciple relationship with them.</p> <p>Still today, Jesus is offering you and me the same “Follow Me” invitation into this profound, personal relationship called discipleship. What does it entail? In the 1st century, discipleship was <strong>an all-or-nothing bond</strong> with a Jewish rabbi. Therefore, Jesus’ disciples committed to:</p> <ol class="wp-block-list"><li>Submit totally to Jesus’ will.</li><li>Memorize Jesus’ teachings.</li><li>Understand and accept Jesus’ traditions and Scripture interpretations.</li><li>Imitate the lifestyle of Jesus.</li><li>Train the next generation of disciples in the same manner as the Lord had taught them.*</li></ol> <p>Wow! This is more demanding than being a church member. How can we learn this role? In every chapter of the Gospels Jesus teaches us more about discipleship and our life in Christ. For example, John 6 features these lessons:</p> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right" style="grid-template-columns:auto 26%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="200" height="308" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/FF-BB-Block-Names-small-e1560959762720.jpg?resize=200%2C308&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1523" loading="lazy"></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p>1. As Jesus feeds the 5000, we learn that <strong><em>fruitfulness</em></strong> arrives when we grant Him control over the little that we have.</p> <p>2. Amid raging waves, Jesus reveals the <strong><em>fullness</em></strong> of His identity. So, when troubled by any kind of storm, let’s welcome Jesus into our boat. </p> <p>3. When Jesus urges people to continually munch on His flesh, we realize that knowing Him is not a one-and-done meal, but a series of <strong>nows</strong><em>,</em> constantly nourishing our life in Christ. </p> <p>4. Many disciples quit on Rabbi Jesus and walk away. Feeling the <strong>pushback</strong> of unbelief, the Twelve have to weigh their allegiance: Are they all in or all out? How about you and me?</p> </div></div> <p><strong>Are you a Christian or a disciple?</strong> There is a difference. Discipleship is a relationship of profound commitment. Discipleship means you are never alone as you walk with Rabbi Jesus through every event of your life. Discipleship starts with Christ’s commitment to you; He died on the cross, rose again, and pours out the Holy Spirit to qualify you as His disciple. </p> <p><strong>Jesus is all in! Are you?</strong> If so, walk with Him and learn from Him daily. If not, ask the Lord to show you what is holding you back and how to address the obstacles. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>Whether you are ready or not, He will not fail you, because no one is a better a teacher than Rabbi Jesus.</strong></p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #7 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>A catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook by Phil Bickel, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> <p class="has-small-font-size">* Source: <em>Are You a Christian or a Disciple?</em> by Edward N. Gross, pp. 45-47. Xulon Press, 2014.</p> </div></div> </body>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john6/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1558</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Building Blocks in John 5</title> <link>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john5/</link> <comments>https://www.philbickel.com/bb-john5/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 01 Jul 2019 08:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sent]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#Fullnessorfraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building blocks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Christian walk]]></category> <category><![CDATA[collision]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ebook]]></category> <category><![CDATA[evangelism]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or fraction]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John 5]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Life in Christ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missions]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Model]]></category> <category><![CDATA[obedience]]></category> <category><![CDATA[outfitted]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Phil Bickel]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sanctification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Submission]]></category> <category><![CDATA[super powers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Team Trinity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[witness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.philbickel.com/?p=1542</guid> <description><![CDATA[Was Jesus in charge of His life, exercising His super powers as He saw fit? Did He make a To Do List every morning and just do it? In John 5, Jesus says He was not a lone wolf. Instead, someone else was calling the shots. Who?]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile" style="grid-template-columns:auto 15%"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="422" height="468" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Model-1.jpg?resize=422%2C468&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1459" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Model-1.jpg?w=422&ssl=1 422w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BB-Model-1.jpg?resize=271%2C300&ssl=1 271w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 422px) 100vw, 422px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color has-drop-cap has-medium-font-size"><strong>Model of Submission.</strong> In John 5 the teaching of Jesus is packed with information about the building block of life called Model.</p> </div></div> <p>1. John 5:17, <em>“My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.”</em>* God the Father and God the Son are united in <strong>the same occupation</strong>.</p> <p>2. John 5:19, <em>“Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”</em> <strong>Jesus is not a lone wolf. He initiates nothing.</strong> He submits to the leadership and authority of the Father. Thus, Jesus models obedience for us.</p> <p>3. John 5:20a, <em>“For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does.”</em> Why does Jesus submit to the Father’s will? Because the Father loves the Son and willingly teaches Him. <strong>Likewise, the Father will joyfully teach us day by day</strong> to seek, learn, and do His will. (See Psalm 32:8)</p> <p>4. John 5:20b, <em>“Yes, and he [the Father] will show him [the Son] even greater works than these, so that you will be amazed.”</em> <strong>The greater things are:</strong> raising the dead; granting people eternal life; freeing them from condemnation; transferring them from death to life; and judging those who will be called forth from their graves. Is anything greater than these!</p> <p>5. Jesus concludes in John 5:30, “<em>By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.”</em> <strong>Jesus’ super powers are subservient to the command of His Father.</strong> </p> <p>Although I had read the Gospel of John dozens of times, I had never taken such statements seriously. I always imagined Jesus woke up every morning, made His plan for the day, and then did it, exercising His will and power as He saw fit. </p> <p>Yet, that is not what Jesus tells us here in John 5, is it? He claims that every encounter, every conversation, every parable, every miracle, and every judgment are the Father’s ideas!</p> <p>So, are you telling me, Phil, that when we read the Gospels, we should keep in mind that everything Jesus does and says originates from God the Father and then is faithfully obeyed by the Son? </p> <p>No, I’m not telling you to do that. </p> <p style="color:#900546" class="has-text-color"><strong>But Jesus is.</strong> As He models submission to the Father, Jesus is showing us how we can live as God’s children. Reading the Bible is exciting as we detect the building blocks of life in Christ and allow them to collide with any false beliefs that are stunting our growth in Christ. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="1024" height="29" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1265" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=1024%2C29&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=300%2C9&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?resize=768%2C22&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Grape-divider.png?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure> <div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-vertically-aligned-center" style="grid-template-columns:22% auto"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="584" height="778" src="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=584%2C778&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1202" loading="lazy" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?w=584&ssl=1 584w, https://i0.wp.com/www.philbickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FF-John-Book-Cover-1.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content"> <p class="has-drop-cap">This is post #6 in an ongoing dialog about the Gospel of John occurring online at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com" target="_blank">www.philbickel.com</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/Fullnessorfraction/posts" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzRlt4OwtuwEUf8WHC57K0Q" target="_blank">Youtube</a>. You’re invited to join the conversation.</p> <p>A catalyst for the dialogue is a free 97-page ebook by Phil Bickel, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/store/" target="_blank"><em>Fullness or Fraction in the Gospel of John</em></a>, which introduces readers to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.philbickel.com/fullness-or-fraction-the-basics/" target="_blank">10 essential building blocks</a> of life in Christ. </p> <p style="font-size:10px">*Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version® NIV®. Copyright (c) 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.<img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/2122.png" alt="™" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /> Used by permission. 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