◄ John 14 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
In My Father’s House Are Many Rooms 1“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God;a believe in Me as well. 2In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?b 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am. 4You know the way to the place where I am going.c” The Way, the Truth, and the Life 5“Lord,” said Thomas, “we do not know where You are going, so how can we know the way?” 6Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. 7If you had known Me, you would know My Father as well. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” 8Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” 9Jesus replied, “Philip, I have been with you all this time, and still you do not know Me? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me? The words I say to you, I do not speak on My own. Instead, it is the Father dwelling in Me, performing His works. 11Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me—or at least believe on account of the works themselves. 12Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14If you ask Med for anything in My name, I will do it. Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit (John 16:5–16) 15If you love Me, you will keepe My commandments. 16And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocatef to be with you forever— 17the Spirit of truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you do know Him, for He abides with you and will be in you.g 18I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19In a little while the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you also will live. 20On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you. 21Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him.” 22Judas (not Iscariot) asked Him, “Lord, why are You going to reveal Yourself to us and not to the world?” 23Jesus replied, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word. My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. 24Whoever does not love Me does not keep My words. The word that you hear is not My own, but it is from the Father who sent Me. 25All this I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you. Peace I Leave with You 27Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. 28You heard Me say, ‘I am going away, and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved Me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. 29And now I have told you before it happens, so that when it does happen, you will believe. 30I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming, and he has no claim on Me. 31But I do exactly what the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Get up! Let us go on from here. Footnotes: 1 a Or Believe in God 2 b Or If it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 4 c BYZ and TR And where I go you know, and the way you know. 14 d TR does not include Me. 15 e Or If you love Me, keep 16 f Or Comforter or Helper or Counselor; Greek Paraclete; also in verse 26 17 g WH and is in you 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 14 Summary The Way, the Truth, and the Life Verses 1–4 – A Place Prepared Jesus calms His disciples’ fears, assuring them that His departure means He is preparing a permanent home in His Father’s house and will return to bring them there. Verses 5–7 – The Only Way Thomas voices confusion, and Jesus responds with the famous declaration that He alone is “the way and the truth and the life,” the exclusive path to the Father. Verses 8–14 – Seeing the Father in the Son Philip asks to see the Father. Jesus explains that seeing Him is seeing the Father, promises that believers will do “greater works,” and invites them to pray in His name. Verses 15–21 – Promise of the Helper Loving Jesus means keeping His commands. He will ask the Father to send another Advocate—the Spirit of truth—who will live with and within believers, assuring them they are not left as orphans. Verses 22–24 – Love and Obedience Judas (not Iscariot) questions why Jesus will reveal Himself only to believers. Jesus answers that loving Him leads to obedience, and such lovers become a dwelling place for the Father and the Son. Verses 25–31 – Gift of Peace, Call to Believe Jesus promises the Spirit will teach and remind them, bestows His unique peace, foretells His departure and return, and ends by urging faith even as the “prince of this world” approaches. John 14 is a comforting and enlightening discourse by Jesus during the Last Supper. Facing His imminent departure, Jesus offers His disciples profound teachings about heaven, His unique role, the coming Holy Spirit, and the relationship between love and obedience. This chapter provides crucial spiritual insights and promises for every believer. Setting and Background • Time: The final night before the crucifixion, still in the Upper Room after the Last Supper (John 13–17). • Audience: The eleven faithful disciples; Judas Iscariot has already left (13:30). • Mood: Tension and sorrow fill the room, yet Jesus speaks comfort, promise, and mission. First-Century Marriage Imagery and “My Father’s House” • In Galilean wedding custom, a groom would leave after betrothal, add rooms to his father’s house, and return for his bride (cf. Matthew 25:1-13). Jesus echoes that pattern: “I will come back and welcome you into My presence” (14:3). • The “rooms” emphasize permanence and belonging, not temporary lodging. The Exclusive Claim of Jesus (14:6) • Scripture reinforcement: Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; Isaiah 35:8. • “No one comes to the Father except through Me” counters ideas of multiple paths. The claim hinges on His unity with the Father (14:9-11). • Practical note: Bold proclamation balanced by open invitation (John 3:16). “Greater Works” and Their Fulfillment (14:12-14) • After Pentecost the disciples preached to thousands (Acts 2), healed (Acts 3), and carried the gospel worldwide—“greater” in scope, not superiority. • Asking “in My name” means in harmony with His character and mission (1 John 5:14-15). The Holy Spirit: Advocate and Teacher (14:15-18, 25-26) • Greek term literally means one called alongside to help—translated Advocate, Counselor, Helper. • Roles: – Lives within believers permanently (cf. Romans 8:9). – Teaches and reminds them of Jesus’ words (1 Corinthians 2:9-13). – Testifies about Jesus (15:26). • Fulfillment begins in Acts 2 and continues in every believer. Love Proven by Obedience (14:15, 21, 23-24) • Love is not mere feeling but seen in actions. Compare 1 John 2:3-6; James 1:22. • The mutual indwelling—Father and Son make their home with obedient lovers—reverses Eden’s separation (Genesis 3) and previews Revelation 21:3. Peace, Not as the World Gives (14:27) • Worldly peace depends on circumstances; Jesus’ peace rests on His finished work (Colossians 3:15). • He gives it before Gethsemane and the cross, proving it is stronger than outward turmoil (Philippians 4:6-7). Archaeological Insights: Upper Room and First-Century Homes • Typical Jerusalem houses had guest rooms on the upper level accessed by external stairs—matching the “large furnished upper room” (Luke 22:12). • Stone vessels found nearby show ritual purity concerns of the era (cf. John 2:6). Connections to the Old Testament • “Way” language recalls the wilderness path led by the Lord (Exodus 13:21-22). • “Rooms” echo the temple’s many chambers (1 Kings 6:5). Jesus replaces temple access with personal access (John 2:19-21). • Promise of Spirit fulfills Joel 2:28-29 and Ezekiel 36:27. Echoes in the Epistles and Revelation • Paul applies the dwelling theme: believers are God’s house (Ephesians 2:19-22). • Hebrews 10:19-22 urges confidence to enter God’s presence “by a new and living way.” • Revelation 21:2-3 portrays the completed promise: God dwells with His people forever. Practical Life Application • When anxiety rises, remember the double command: “Do not let your hearts be troubled… Believe” (14:1). • Daily obedience is tangible proof of love for Jesus. • Pray boldly “in His name,” aligning requests with His purpose. • Rely on the Spirit for teaching, guidance, and courage. • Rest in Christ’s peace that overrides circumstances, knowing He is preparing a lasting home and will return. Connections to Additional Scriptures Exclusivity of Christ Acts 4:12 - Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Role of the Holy Spirit Romans 8:26 - In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. Peace of God Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Eternal Hope 1 Peter 1:3-4 - He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Teaching Points Jesus as the Way John 14:6 states, Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.' This verse underscores the exclusivity of Christ as the only path to God. The Promise of the Holy Spirit In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, saying, And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide. Peace in Christ John 14:27 offers peace that the world cannot give: Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid. The Father's House Jesus speaks of preparing a place for us in His Father's house (John 14:2-3), providing hope of eternal life and a future with Him. Practical Applications Trust in Jesus In moments of doubt, remember that Jesus is the way to the Father. Trust in His guidance and direction for your life. Rely on the Holy Spirit Cultivate a relationship with the Holy Spirit, who is your Advocate and source of truth. Embrace Christ's Peace In times of anxiety, meditate on the peace that Jesus offers, which surpasses all understanding. Hope in Eternal Life Let the promise of a place in the Father's house encourage you to live with an eternal perspective. People 1. Jesus Jesus is the central figure in John 14. He is speaking to His disciples, providing comfort and teaching about His departure, the coming of the Holy Spirit, and the way to the Father. In the original Greek, His name is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous), which is derived from the Hebrew name Yeshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." 2. The Father Referred to as "the Father," God is depicted as the one who sent Jesus and with whom Jesus is one. Jesus emphasizes His relationship with the Father, stating that seeing Him is seeing the Father. The Greek term used is πατήρ (patēr). 3. The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is introduced as the "Advocate" or "Helper" (Greek: παράκλητος, paraklētos), whom the Father will send in Jesus' name. The Spirit is described as the Spirit of truth who will teach and remind the disciples of everything Jesus has said. 4. Philip Philip is one of the disciples who asks Jesus to show them the Father, prompting Jesus to explain His unity with the Father. His name in Greek is Φίλιππος (Philippos), meaning "lover of horses." 5. Thomas Thomas, another disciple, questions Jesus about knowing the way to where He is going, leading to Jesus' famous declaration, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." His name in Greek is Θωμᾶς (Thōmas), which is derived from the Aramaic word for "twin." Places 1. The Father's House Description Jesus speaks of His Father's house, which is understood as a reference to heaven. He assures His disciples that there are many rooms there, indicating a place prepared for them. This is a metaphorical place representing eternal dwelling with God. Scripture "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" (John 14:2) Greek Root The term "house" (οἰκία, oikia) in Greek can refer to a dwelling place or household, emphasizing the familial and communal aspect of heaven. 2. The Place Jesus Prepares Description Jesus mentions going to prepare a place for His followers, which is understood as His work of salvation and the promise of eternal life. This "place" is not a physical location but a spiritual reality secured through His death and resurrection. Scripture "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am." (John 14:3) Greek Root The word "place" (τόπος, topos) in Greek signifies a space or position, highlighting the personal and prepared nature of this promise. Events 1. Jesus Comforts His Disciples Jesus begins by comforting His disciples, saying, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me" (John 14:1). The Greek word for "troubled" is ταρασσέσθω (tarassesthō), which conveys a sense of being disturbed or agitated. 2. Promise of the Father's House Jesus assures them of a place in His Father's house, stating, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" (John 14:2). The term "rooms" (μοναι, monai) can also be translated as "dwelling places." 3. Jesus, the Way to the Father Jesus declares Himself as the exclusive path to the Father: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). The Greek word for "way" is ὁδός (hodos), indicating a path or journey. 4. Philip's Request and Jesus' Response Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, to which Jesus replies, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9). This emphasizes the unity between Jesus and the Father. 5. Promise of Greater Works Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will do greater works: "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father" (John 14:12). 6. The Promise of the Holy Spirit Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate: "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever" (John 14:16). The Greek word for "Advocate" is παράκλητος (paraklētos), meaning helper or counselor. 7. The Spirit of Truth Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as the "Spirit of truth," who will dwell with and be in the disciples (John 14:17). 8. Jesus' Assurance of His Presence Jesus assures His disciples of His continued presence: "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you" (John 14:18). 9. The Love and Obedience Connection Jesus links love for Him with obedience to His commands: "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). 10. Peace I Leave with You Jesus offers His peace to the disciples, distinct from worldly peace: "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives" (John 14:27). The Greek word for "peace" is εἰρήνη (eirēnē), signifying a state of tranquility and harmony. 11. Jesus' Return to the Father Jesus speaks of His return to the Father and the joy it should bring: "If you loved Me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I" (John 14:28). 12. The Ruler of This World Jesus mentions the coming of the ruler of this world, but reassures that he has no power over Him: "The prince of this world is coming. He has no claim on Me" (John 14:30). Lessons from John 14 1. Jesus Prepares a Place for Us In John 14:2, Jesus assures us, "In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" This promise is a comforting reminder that our eternal home is secure. Just as we prepare our homes for guests, Jesus is preparing a heavenly home for us. This assurance can inspire us to live with hope and purpose, knowing that our ultimate destination is with Him. 2. The Way, the Truth, and the Life Jesus declares in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This profound statement emphasizes that Jesus is the exclusive path to God. In a world full of distractions and false promises, focusing on Jesus as our guide ensures we stay on the right path. Let this truth guide your decisions and actions daily. 3. Knowing Jesus is Knowing the Father In John 14:9, Jesus tells Philip, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." This reveals the intimate connection between Jesus and God the Father. By studying Jesus' life and teachings, we gain insight into God's character. This understanding can deepen our relationship with God and enhance our spiritual journey. 4. The Power of Prayer in Jesus' Name John 14:13-14 promises, "And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it." This encourages us to pray boldly and confidently, knowing that our prayers, when aligned with God's will, have the power to bring about change. Make prayer a central part of your daily routine to experience its transformative power. 5. The Gift of the Holy Spirit Jesus promises the Holy Spirit in John 14:16-17, saying, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth." The Holy Spirit is our constant companion, guiding and empowering us. Embrace this gift by seeking the Spirit's guidance in your decisions and actions, allowing His presence to lead you in truth. 6. The Peace of Christ In John 14:27, Jesus offers, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives." This peace is not dependent on circumstances but is a deep, abiding sense of calm and assurance. In times of stress or uncertainty, lean on this divine peace to steady your heart and mind. 7. Obedience as a Sign of Love John 14:15 states, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience to Jesus' teachings is a natural expression of our love for Him. By aligning our actions with His commands, we demonstrate our commitment and deepen our relationship with Him. Let love be the motivation behind your obedience. 8. The Promise of Jesus' Return Jesus reassures us in John 14:3, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am." This promise of His return gives us hope and encourages us to live with anticipation and readiness. Keep your focus on eternal things, knowing that Jesus will return to fulfill His promise. 9. Greater Works Through Faith In John 14:12, Jesus declares, "Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these because I am going to the Father." This is an empowering call to action, reminding us that through faith, we can accomplish great things for God's kingdom. Let this inspire you to step out in faith and make a difference in the world. 10. The Assurance of Jesus' Love John 14:21 assures us, "Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me. The one who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and reveal Myself to him." This promise of love and revelation is a powerful reminder of the personal relationship we can have with Jesus. Embrace His love and seek to know Him more deeply each day. Topics 1. Jesus Comforts His Disciples Jesus begins by comforting His disciples, assuring them of His continued presence and the promise of a place prepared for them. He says, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me" (John 14:1). The Greek word for "troubled" is "ταράσσω" (tarassō), indicating a deep disturbance or agitation. 2. The Way, the Truth, and the Life Jesus declares Himself as the exclusive path to the Father: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). The Greek word "ὁδός" (hodos) for "way" implies a journey or path, emphasizing Jesus as the sole route to salvation. 3. The Father Revealed in the Son Jesus explains His unity with the Father, stating, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9). This underscores the concept of the Trinity, where Jesus is the visible representation of the invisible God. 4. The Promise of the Holy Spirit Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the "Advocate" or "Helper," who will teach and remind the disciples of all He has said: "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever" (John 14:16). The Greek word "παράκλητος" (paraklētos) means one who is called to one's side, a helper or counselor. 5. Peace I Leave with You Jesus offers His peace to the disciples, distinct from worldly peace: "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives" (John 14:27). The Greek word "εἰρήνη" (eirēnē) for "peace" conveys a sense of wholeness and well-being. 6. The Assurance of Jesus' Return Jesus reassures His disciples of His return, saying, "I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am" (John 14:3). This promise is a cornerstone of Christian eschatological hope. Themes 1. Comfort and Assurance Jesus begins by comforting His disciples, saying, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me" (John 14:1). The Greek word for "troubled" (ταράσσω, tarassō) implies being stirred or agitated, and Jesus offers peace and assurance in the face of uncertainty. 2. Promise of Eternal Dwelling Jesus promises a place in His Father’s house, stating, "In My Father’s house are many rooms" (John 14:2). The term "rooms" (μοναί, monai) suggests permanent dwelling places, emphasizing the eternal security and preparation Jesus provides for believers. 3. Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). This statement underscores the exclusivity and sufficiency of Christ in salvation, with "way" (ὁδός, hodos), "truth" (ἀλήθεια, alētheia), and "life" (ζωή, zōē) highlighting His unique role in redemption. 4. Revelation of the Father through the Son Jesus explains His unity with the Father, saying, "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9). This theme emphasizes the divine nature of Christ and His role in revealing God to humanity, rooted in the Greek understanding of "seen" (ὁράω, horaō) as perceiving or understanding. 5. The Promise of the Holy Spirit Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the "Advocate" (Παράκλητος, Paraklētos), who will teach and remind the disciples of all Jesus has said (John 14:26). This theme highlights the ongoing presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. 6. Peace Given by Christ Jesus offers a peace distinct from the world’s, saying, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you" (John 14:27). The Greek word for "peace" (εἰρήνη, eirēnē) conveys a sense of wholeness and well-being, reflecting the inner tranquility provided by Christ. 7. Obedience as Love for Christ Jesus links love for Him with obedience to His commands: "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). This theme underscores the relationship between love and obedience, with "keep" (τηρέω, tēreō) implying careful observance and guarding of His teachings. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Jesus Thank God for sending Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. Guidance of the Holy Spirit Pray for a deeper awareness and reliance on the Holy Spirit in your daily life. Peace in Troubled Times Ask for Christ's peace to fill your heart amidst life's challenges. Hope and Assurance Pray for a strengthened hope in the promise of eternal life with God. As we reflect on John 14, may these truths transform our hearts and minds, drawing us closer to Jesus and His eternal promises. Answering Tough Questions 1. John 14:2 – How can we reconcile the claim of “many rooms in the Father’s house” with scientific knowledge about the universe and any physical “heavenly dwelling” location? 2. John 14:6 – Why should an all-loving God provide only one exclusive path to salvation through Jesus? 3. John 14:9 – How can Jesus say “whoever has seen me has seen the Father” and still be separate from God, especially given other Scriptures that distinguish the Father from the Son? 4. John 14:12 – Where is the evidence today that believers consistently perform “greater works” than Jesus did? 5. John 14:13–14 – If “whatever you ask in my name” will be done, how do we explain the countless unanswered prayers throughout history? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' promise of a place in His Father's house provide comfort for you in your current life circumstances? 2. What does Jesus mean when He says He is "the way, the truth, and the life"? 3. How does Jesus' assurance of His unity with the Father deepen your understanding of His divinity? 4. How do you understand the role of the Holy Spirit as explained in this chapter? 5. What does Jesus' teaching on love and obedience mean to you personally? 6. How does Jesus' promise of peace provide assurance in times of trouble? 7. How does Jesus' statement about the connection between seeing Him and seeing the Father inform your understanding of God's nature? 8. How does Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit comfort and encourage you in your spiritual journey? 9. How can you apply Jesus' teaching on obedience and love in your daily life? 10. How does Jesus' calmness and peace in facing His imminent betrayal inspire you in your own times of trial? 11. How does Jesus' explanation of His relationship with the Father challenge your understanding of God? 12. What does Jesus' promise to answer prayers asked in His name mean to you? 13. How does Jesus' assurance of His return and the preparation of a place for His followers shape your perspective on death and the afterlife? 14. What does Jesus' teachings in this chapter reveal about the Trinity? 15. How can you apply the promise of the Holy Spirit in navigating your spiritual and personal challenges? 16. How does Jesus' peace differ from the peace that the world offers? 17. What does this chapter teach you about the nature and importance of faith in Jesus? 18. How can you embody Jesus' teachings about love and obedience in your current relationships and responsibilities? 19. Reflect on the entire chapter. How do Jesus' promises and teachings provide comfort and guidance in your life journey? 20. How does the disciples' struggle to comprehend Jesus' words resonate with your own spiritual struggles, and how can Jesus' responses to them provide insight for you? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions