◄ John 2 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Wedding at Cana 1On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, 2and Jesus and His disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3When the wine ran out, Jesus’ mother said to Him, “They have no more wine.” 4“Woman, what is that to you and to Me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.” 5His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever He tells you.” 6Now six stone water jars had been set there for the Jewish rites of purification. Each could hold from twenty to thirty gallons.a 7Jesus told the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled them to the brim. 8“Now draw some out,” He said, “and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, 9and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not know where it was from, but the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside 10and said, “Everyone serves the fine wine first, and then the cheap wine after the guests are drunk. But you have saved the fine wine until now!” 11Jesus performed this, the first of His signs, at Cana in Galilee. He thus revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him. Jesus Cleanses the Temple (Matthew 21:12–17; Mark 11:15–19; Luke 19:45–48) 12After this, He went down to Capernaum with His mother and brothers and His disciples, and they stayed there a few days. 13When the Jewish Passover was near, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14In the temple courtsb He found men selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and money changers seated at their tables. 15So He made a whip out of cords and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle. He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. 16To those selling doves He said, “Get these out of here! How dare you turn My Father’s house into a marketplace!” 17His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for Your house will consume Me.”c 18On account of this, the Jews demanded, “What sign can You show us to prove Your authority to do these things?” 19Jesus answered, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up again.” 20“This temple took forty-six years to build,” the Jews replied, “and You are going to raise it up in three days?” 21But Jesus was speaking about the temple of His body. 22After He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this. Then they believed the Scripture and the word that Jesus had spoken. 23While He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the signs He was doing and believed in His name. 24But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew them all. 25He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man. Footnotes: 6 a Greek two or three metretae; that is, approximately 20.8 to 31.2 gallons (78.8 to 118.1 liters) 14 b Literally the temple; also in verse 15 17 c Psalm 69:9 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub John 2 Summary The Wedding at Cana Verses 1–2 – A Wedding in Cana On the third day after gathering His first followers, Jesus attends a village wedding in Cana of Galilee with His mother and His new disciples, stepping into everyday life and joy. Verses 3–5 – Mary’s Request and Jesus’ Response When the wine runs out, Mary tells Jesus. He replies, “Woman, why does this concern us? My hour has not yet come,” making clear that His mission follows the Father’s timing even while He chooses to help. Verses 6–11 – Water into Wine Six large stone jars used for ritual washing are filled to the brim with water. Jesus turns the water into excellent wine, and the master of the banquet marvels. John calls this the first of Jesus’ signs, revealing His glory and strengthening His disciples’ faith. Verses 12 – Brief Stay in Capernaum Jesus, His mother, His brothers, and His disciples stay in Capernaum for a few days, preparing for the Passover journey. Verses 13–17 – Cleansing of the Temple At Passover in Jerusalem, Jesus finds merchants and money-changers in the temple courts. He makes a whip of cords, drives them out, overturns tables, and says, “Stop turning My Father’s house into a marketplace!” His disciples remember, “Zeal for Your house will consume Me.” Verses 18–22 – The Sign of the Raised Temple Asked for a sign, Jesus answers, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” The leaders think of Herod’s temple, but He is speaking about His body. After His resurrection, the disciples remember and believe. Verses 23–25 – Belief and the Knower of Hearts Many believe because of the signs, yet Jesus does not entrust Himself to them, for “He knew all men” and understands every heart. John 2 delves into the commencement of Jesus' public ministry, showcasing His divine authority through His first miracle at a wedding in Cana and His zealous act of cleansing the Jerusalem temple. The chapter also features Jesus' prediction of His resurrection, further underlining His divine nature. Historical Setting: Cana, Capernaum, and the Third Day • Cana is a small Galilean village; ruins at modern-day Kefr Kenna and Khirbet Qana both fit John’s description. • “The third day” counts from the previous events in John 1:43–51, linking the call of Nathanael (himself from Cana, 21:2) with this first sign among friends. • Capernaum, 16 miles away, serves as Jesus’ later ministry base (Matthew 4:13). Archaeological digs show a prosperous fishing town with a synagogue foundation from the first century, matching Gospel records. Stone Water Jars and Jewish Purification • Each jar holds “two or three measures” (20–30 gallons each). Stone vessels were favored because they did not contract ritual impurity (Mishnah Parah 3.2). • The jars remind readers of the Law’s outward washings (Mark 7:3-4). Jesus fills them, then transforms the contents—symbolizing inner cleansing that only He can give (Titus 3:5). The First Sign: Water into Wine, Joy into Fullness • Wine in Scripture pictures blessing and joy (Psalm 104:15; Isaiah 25:6). Jesus provides it in abundance—around 120–180 gallons—declaring in deed what He later says in words: “I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness” (John 10:10). • The master’s praise, “You have kept the good wine until now,” points to the surpassing quality of the new covenant compared with the old (Hebrews 8:6). • This first sign lays a pattern: each miracle in John unveils who Jesus is and calls for personal trust (20:30-31). Mary’s Part and the Phrase “My Hour Has Not Yet Come” • Mary’s gentle appeal shows her confidence in Jesus. His respectful address, “Woman,” was polite in that culture (see 19:26). • “My hour” points ahead to His cross and resurrection (7:30; 12:23). Even while granting the request, Jesus keeps the focus on God’s timetable, not human pressure. Temple Commerce and Passover Crowds • Passover required every male Israelite to appear before God (Deuteronomy 16:16). Josephus estimates hundreds of thousands in Jerusalem during the feast. • Money-changers exchanged foreign coins for Tyrian silver, the only currency accepted for the half-shekel temple tax. Animal sellers provided spotless sacrifices on-site. • What began as convenience had filled the Court of the Gentiles, crowding out worship. Jesus’ forceful action restores the temple’s purpose: “a house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:7). “Zeal for Your House Will Consume Me” (Psalm 69:9) • The disciples connect Jesus’ passion with David’s words. Psalm 69, often applied to the Messiah, also surfaces in John 19:28-29 at the cross. • The verse hints that Jesus’ zeal will lead to His suffering—He is “consumed” for God’s honor. Comparing Temple Cleansings • Matthew, Mark, and Luke record a cleansing in the final week (Matthew 21; Mark 11; Luke 19). John places one at the start of ministry. • Possibilities: – Two separate occasions, early and late. – John moves the episode for thematic reasons. • An early cleansing fits John’s timeline and heightens growing conflict. The Raised Temple—A Sign of Resurrection • The temple Herod expanded took 46 years to build; stones weighing 100–300 tons remain visible today. • Jesus speaks figuratively of His body (1 Corinthians 3:16 applies the same idea to believers). • On the third day after His crucifixion He rose (Luke 24:46). This becomes the decisive sign validating every claim He made (Romans 1:4). Faith, Signs, and Jesus’ Knowledge of Hearts • Many “believed in His name” (v 23) yet Jesus “did not entrust Himself to them.” Their belief was sign-based fascination, not heart commitment. • This prepares for Nicodemus in 3:1-21, showing that new birth—not mere amazement—brings true life. • Old Testament support: “The LORD searches every heart” (1 Chronicles 28:9). Archaeological Notes on Herod’s Temple Complex • The temple platform covered 36 acres, larger than 20 football fields. Robinson’s Arch, shops, and mikva’ot (ritual baths) have been uncovered, confirming commercial activity around the courts. • Whip of cords: simple ropes likely grabbed from animal stalls, matching the bustling scene. Practical Insights for Today • Jesus values family and community celebration yet brings something far better than human effort can supply. • Genuine worship cannot be mixed with greed; hearts, churches, and ministries must stay focused on God’s honor over profit. • The Lord still knows every heart; signs may attract, but surrendered trust is what He seeks (James 4:8). • His resurrection remains the unshakable sign; because He raised the “temple” of His body, believers have confidence that He can raise theirs as well (2 Corinthians 4:14). Connections to Other Scriptures • Exodus 7:20 – Moses turns water to blood; Jesus turns water to wine, a better mediator. • Amos 9:13 – Prophecy of mountains dripping with sweet wine, fulfilled in Christ’s kingdom. • Malachi 3:1 – The Lord suddenly comes to His temple, purifying worship. • Hebrews 9:11-12 – Christ, the greater temple and High Priest, provides perfect access to God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Marriage and Community Genesis 2:24 - The institution of marriage as a divine creation. Ephesians 5:31-32 - The mystery of marriage as a reflection of Christ and the church. Purity in Worship Psalm 69:9 - Prophecy of zeal for God's house. Malachi 3:1-3 - The Lord's coming to purify and refine. Faith and Miracles Hebrews 11:1 - Faith as confidence in what we hope for. Matthew 17:20 - Faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains. Teaching Points The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) Jesus' first miracle was performed at a wedding, highlighting the importance of marriage and community. Mary, Jesus' mother, demonstrates faith in Jesus' ability to address the situation, saying, Do whatever He tells you (John 2:5). The transformation of water into wine signifies Jesus' power over creation and His ability to bring joy and abundance. This miracle reveals Jesus' glory and leads His disciples to believe in Him (John 2:11). Cleansing the Temple (John 2:12-25) Jesus' actions in the temple show His zeal for God's house and His authority to purify worship practices. He challenges the commercialization of religious practices, emphasizing the need for genuine worship. Jesus predicts His death and resurrection, referring to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21). The disciples recall Scripture, Zeal for Your house will consume Me (John 2:17), connecting Jesus' actions to Old Testament prophecy. Practical Applications Faith and Obedience Like Mary, we should trust in Jesus' ability to handle our needs and follow His guidance without hesitation. Joy and Abundance Jesus brings transformation and joy into our lives, just as He did at the wedding. We should seek His presence in both ordinary and extraordinary moments. Reverence in Worship Our worship should be sincere and free from distractions or commercialization, focusing on honoring God. Understanding Jesus' Mission Recognize the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection as the foundation of our faith and the ultimate act of purification. People 1. Jesus The central figure in the chapter, Jesus performs His first recorded miracle by turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. This event marks the beginning of His public ministry and reveals His divine authority and power. 2. Jesus' Mother (Mary) She is present at the wedding in Cana and informs Jesus about the lack of wine, prompting Him to perform the miracle. Her role highlights her faith in Jesus' ability to address the situation. 3. Jesus' Disciples They accompany Jesus to the wedding and witness His miracle, which strengthens their belief in Him. The disciples are followers of Jesus who are learning from His teachings and actions. 4. The Servants These individuals are instructed by Jesus to fill the jars with water, which He then turns into wine. Their obedience plays a crucial role in the miracle's execution. 5. The Master of the Banquet Also known as the "headwaiter" or "steward," this person is responsible for overseeing the wedding feast. He is surprised by the quality of the wine that Jesus provides, not knowing its miraculous origin. 6. The Bridegroom Although not directly involved in the narrative, the bridegroom is mentioned by the master of the banquet, who praises him for serving the best wine last, unaware that it was Jesus who provided it. In the original Greek text, the term "Ἰησοῦς" (Iēsous) is used for Jesus, and "μήτηρ" (mētēr) for mother, indicating the familial relationship. The disciples are referred to as "μαθηταί" (mathētai), meaning learners or followers. The servants are called "διάκονοι" (diakonoi), which can also mean ministers or attendants, highlighting their role in service. The master of the banquet is referred to as "ἀρχιτρίκλινος" (architriklinos), indicating his position of authority at the feast. Places 1. Cana in Galilee This is the location where Jesus performed His first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding feast. The significance of Cana is highlighted as the place where Jesus began to reveal His glory, leading His disciples to believe in Him. The Greek term for Cana (Κανὰ) indicates a village in the region of Galilee, which was known for its Jewish population and rural setting. 2. Capernaum After the wedding in Cana, Jesus, along with His mother, brothers, and disciples, traveled to Capernaum. This town, located on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, served as a central hub for Jesus' ministry. The Greek name for Capernaum (Καφαρναοὺμ) suggests a village of comfort, and it was a significant location for Jesus' teachings and miracles. 3. Jerusalem Jesus went up to Jerusalem for the Passover, a major Jewish festival. In Jerusalem, He cleansed the temple, driving out the merchants and money changers. The city, known in Hebrew as יְרוּשָׁלַיִם (Yerushalayim), was the religious and cultural heart of Judaism, housing the temple and serving as a focal point for Jewish worship and pilgrimage. Events 1. The Wedding at Cana Jesus attends a wedding in Cana of Galilee with His mother and disciples. When the wine runs out, Mary informs Jesus, and He responds, "Woman, why does this concern us? My hour has not yet come" (John 2:4). The term "woman" (Greek: γύναι, gynai) is a respectful address, though it may seem distant in English. 2. Jesus Turns Water into Wine Mary instructs the servants to do whatever Jesus tells them. Jesus then instructs them to fill six stone water jars with water, which He miraculously turns into wine. The master of the banquet, unaware of the miracle, praises the quality of the wine, noting that the best wine was saved for last (John 2:7-10). This is considered Jesus' first public miracle, revealing His glory and leading His disciples to believe in Him. 3. Jesus Cleanses the Temple Jesus travels to Jerusalem for the Passover and finds people selling animals and exchanging money in the temple courts. He makes a whip of cords and drives them out, overturning the tables of the money changers, and says, "Get these out of here! How dare you turn My Father’s house into a marketplace!" (John 2:16). This act fulfills the prophecy of zeal for God's house consuming Him (Psalm 69:9). 4. The Jews Demand a Sign The Jewish leaders question Jesus' authority, asking for a sign to justify His actions. Jesus responds, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up" (John 2:19). The Jews misunderstand, thinking He refers to the physical temple, but John clarifies that Jesus was speaking about the temple of His body, foreshadowing His resurrection. 5. Many Believe in Jesus During the Passover feast, many people witness the signs Jesus performs and believe in His name. However, Jesus does not entrust Himself to them, as He knows the hearts of all people (John 2:23-25). This highlights Jesus' divine insight and understanding of human nature. Lessons from John 2 1. The Power of Obedience In John 2, we witness the first miracle of Jesus at the wedding in Cana. When Mary, His mother, informs Him of the wine shortage, she tells the servants, "Do whatever He tells you" (John 2:5). This simple act of obedience leads to a miraculous transformation of water into wine. Obedience to God's instructions, even when they seem mundane or unclear, can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Trust in His guidance, and watch how He works wonders in your life. 2. Jesus' Compassionate Nature The miracle at Cana reveals Jesus' compassionate heart. He cares about the details of our lives, even something as seemingly trivial as a wedding feast running out of wine. This act shows that Jesus is not only concerned with our spiritual needs but also with our everyday concerns. "Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7). Remember, no problem is too small for His attention. 3. The Significance of Timing When Mary approaches Jesus about the wine, He responds, "My hour has not yet come" (John 2:4). This highlights the importance of God's perfect timing. Jesus knew the right moment to reveal His glory. In our lives, we must trust that God’s timing is impeccable, even when we are eager for immediate results. Patience and faith go hand in hand. 4. Transformation Through Christ The transformation of water into wine is a powerful metaphor for the change Jesus brings into our lives. Just as He turned ordinary water into exquisite wine, He can transform our ordinary lives into something extraordinary. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Embrace the change He offers and become a new creation in Him. 5. The Role of Faith in Miracles The servants at the wedding acted in faith when they filled the jars with water, not knowing what Jesus would do. Their faith was rewarded with a miracle. Faith is a crucial component in witnessing God's power. "Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). Step out in faith, and be prepared for God to move in unexpected ways. 6. Jesus' Authority Over Nature By turning water into wine, Jesus demonstrates His authority over the natural world. This miracle is a testament to His divine power and sovereignty. "For by Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible" (Colossians 1:16). Recognize His authority in your life and trust in His ability to control all circumstances. 7. The Importance of Community The wedding at Cana was a communal event, and Jesus' miracle was a blessing to all present. This underscores the importance of community and fellowship. "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds" (Hebrews 10:24). Engage with your community, support one another, and witness how God works through collective faith and unity. 8. The Joy of Abundance Jesus didn't just provide wine; He provided the best wine in abundance. This reflects the abundant life He offers to those who follow Him. "I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness" (John 10:10). Embrace the joy and abundance that comes from a relationship with Christ, knowing that He desires to bless you beyond measure. 9. The Revelation of Glory The miracle at Cana was the first sign through which Jesus revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him (John 2:11). Each miracle and teaching of Jesus is an opportunity to see His glory and deepen our faith. Seek His glory in your daily life, and let it strengthen your belief and commitment to Him. 10. The Beginning of a Journey John 2 marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry, setting the stage for the incredible journey that follows. It reminds us that every journey of faith begins with a single step. "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). Take that step today, and embark on the transformative journey that Jesus offers. Topics 1. The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) This passage describes Jesus' first miracle, turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. This event reveals His glory and leads His disciples to believe in Him. The Greek word for "sign" (σημεῖον, sēmeion) is significant here, indicating a miraculous event that points to a deeper truth about Jesus' divine nature. 2. Jesus Cleanses the Temple (John 2:12-17) Jesus travels to Jerusalem for the Passover and finds merchants in the temple courts. He drives them out, emphasizing the sanctity of His Father's house. The Greek term "ἱερόν" (hieron) refers to the temple complex, highlighting the importance of reverence in worship spaces. 3. The Sign of Jesus' Authority (John 2:18-22) The Jewish leaders question Jesus' authority, and He responds by speaking of the temple of His body, which will be raised in three days. This foreshadows His resurrection. The Greek word "ναός" (naos) is used here, referring to the inner sanctuary, symbolizing Jesus Himself as the true temple. 4. Many Believe in Jesus (John 2:23-25) During the Passover feast, many people believe in Jesus because of the signs He performs. However, Jesus does not entrust Himself to them, knowing the nature of human hearts. The Greek word "πιστεύω" (pisteuō) for "believe" is crucial, indicating a faith that is based on witnessing His miraculous works. Themes 1. The Power of Jesus' Miracles In John 2:1-11, Jesus performs His first public miracle by turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. This act reveals His divine authority and power over creation. The Greek word for "miracle" (σημεῖον, sēmeion) emphasizes the sign's purpose to point to Jesus' divine nature and mission. 2. The Role of Faith and Obedience The servants' obedience to Jesus' instructions in John 2:5-8 demonstrates the importance of faith and obedience in witnessing God's work. Mary’s directive, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5), underscores the necessity of trusting and following Jesus' commands. 3. Jesus' Authority Over Religious Practices In John 2:13-17, Jesus cleanses the temple, asserting His authority over religious practices and institutions. His actions fulfill the prophecy of zeal for God's house (Psalm 69:9), highlighting His role as the purifier of worship. 4. The Fulfillment of Prophecy Jesus' reference to His body as the temple in John 2:19-21 points to His death and resurrection. The Greek word for "temple" (ναός, naos) signifies the inner sanctuary, symbolizing Jesus as the true dwelling place of God, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. 5. The Revelation of Jesus' Glory The miracle at Cana reveals Jesus' glory, as stated in John 2:11, and leads His disciples to believe in Him. The Greek term for "glory" (δόξα, doxa) conveys the manifestation of His divine nature and majesty. 6. The Importance of Belief John 2:22 highlights the disciples' belief in Scripture and Jesus' words after His resurrection. This theme emphasizes the importance of understanding and believing in Jesus' teachings and the fulfillment of Scripture. 7. The Significance of Jesus' Resurrection Jesus' prediction of His resurrection in John 2:19-22 serves as a pivotal theme, underscoring the centrality of the resurrection in Christian faith. The resurrection is the ultimate sign of His divine authority and the cornerstone of Christian belief. Prayer Points Pray for a deeper faith and trust in Jesus' power and provision in our lives. Ask for the joy and abundance of Christ to fill our hearts and homes. Seek God's guidance in maintaining purity and sincerity in our worship practices. Thank God for the sacrifice of Jesus and the hope of resurrection, asking for a greater understanding of His mission. As we reflect on John 2, may we be inspired to live with faith, joy, and reverence, recognizing Jesus' authority and glory in every aspect of our lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can water instantly transform into wine (John 2:1–11) without violating natural laws of chemistry? 2. Why does this miracle at Cana (John 2:1–11) only appear in John’s Gospel and not in the Synoptics? 3. Could the cleansing of the temple (John 2:13–17) have happened twice, or does it conflict with the Synoptic accounts? 4. How credible is the historical setting of a large wedding feast in Cana (John 2:1–11), given limited archeological evidence for the town? 5. Why would Jesus, allegedly teaching nonviolence, use a whip to drive merchants out of the temple (John 2:14–15)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' first miracle at Cana enhance your understanding of His divine nature? 2. In what ways does Jesus' zeal for His Father's house challenge your approach to worship? 3. How does Jesus' prediction of His resurrection broaden your understanding of His mission? 4. How can you apply the principle of honoring God's house in your own life and community? 5. What can you learn from Mary's faith and her instruction to the servants: "Do whatever He tells you"? 6. How does Jesus' handling of the temple's desecration inform your perspective on justice and righteousness? 7. What does the transformation of water into wine signify about Jesus' power and His grace? 8. How does the Jews' demand for a sign reflect human attitudes towards faith and proof? 9. How can Jesus' respect for the sanctity of worship spaces influence our behavior in places of worship? 10. How does Jesus' first miracle demonstrate His sensitivity to human needs and celebrations? 11. How can we demonstrate zeal for God's house in our daily lives? 12. How does the disciples' belief following the miracle at Cana encourage your personal faith journey? 13. What is the significance of Jesus referring to His body as the temple? 14. How does the reaction of the Jewish leaders to Jesus' actions and words reveal about their understanding of God? 15. How does Jesus' control over the physical elements in His miracle reflect His divine authority? 16. In what ways does Jesus' cleansing of the temple demonstrate His authority over religious practices? 17. What lessons can you take from the disciples' post-resurrection understanding of Jesus' words? 18. How does Jesus' first sign/miracle encourage you to trust Him in situations of scarcity or need? 19. How does Jesus' prophetic insight about the human heart (verses 24-25) influence your understanding of His omniscience? 20. In your life, how can you bear witness to Jesus' transformative power, as seen in the miracle at Cana? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions