The Gospel of John, Chapter 2
The first miracle which Jesus performs in this gospel is changing water into wine at a wedding. The author calls it “the first of his signs”. In the other gospels, the first miracles are healings. The end result of changing the water into wine is that Jesus’ glory is revealed, and the disciples believe in Jesus.
The Wedding at Cana story shows us that Jesus and the disciples went to parties, that Jesus hung out with his mom, and that Jesus makes the best wine out of water. But Jesus seems detached from the party guests. Maybe he is an introvert who is depleted of energy by being around a lot of people.
Then it is Passover, and Jesus & Co. go to Jerusalem, where Jesus drives out the merchants and moneychangers from the temple. He takes a stand against the corruption of people whom I imagine are quite powerful. The disciples are perhaps watching but not participating - it isn’t clear. I’m going to assume that in this scene Jesus is a one-man riot machine, smashing the windows of the shops and throwing merchandise around. He really messes stuff up - pouring out the coins all over the place and upturning the tables. It’s a righteous action to call out such profit-making on the very grounds of the temple.
But this action does not endear Jesus to the authorities. “The Jews” (this term in this gospel disturbs me) ask Jesus to justify his riot. Jesus speaks of the temple as a metaphor for himself, foretelling his death and resurrection, but they don’t understand.
The author tells us that because of the signs that Jesus is doing, many “believed in his name”.
Jesus seems aloof in this gospel, so far. He is not acting all good-shepherdy. But he is challenging the powers that be. That is probably comforting to a religious sect that feels beleaguered by powerful authorities.
The author continues to portray Jesus as omniscient. Verse 2:24-25 says “But Jesus on his part would not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to testify about anyone; for he himself knew what was in everyone.” This is a verse I do not recall hearing often in worship.
Metaphors: Raising up a new temple in 3 days represents Jesus’ resurrection. The wine might also be a metaphor.
Images & themes: water, wine, antagonism with authorities
People: Jesus, his Mom, the disciples, the people at a wedding party, Jesus’ brothers, merchants and moneychangers at the temple in Jerusalem, “The Jews”, believers.
Places: Cana, Capernaum - towns in Galilee; Jerusalem.
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