John 6:25 – 59; 7:1 – 8:59; 10:1 – 21; 12:1 – 11; 15:1 – 17.

With our modern-day mantra that we are free to be people of our own making through a freedom to choose being so prevalent, it’s perhaps challenging for some to hear that themes of direction and instruction are included in John’s gospel. Yet, that’s nothing new. Those who were listening to Jesus in the first century faced a similar challenge. John shows us how Jesus sought to carefully and lovingly direct people’s lives towards the fullness of the ways of God, and how that included instructions for embracing a new mindset and lifestyle. We’re included amongst those who Jesus sees as having the same need of renewed mindsets and lifestyle.