John 2:23

While He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the signs He was doing and believed in His name.

Study Bible

While He was in Jerusalem
This phrase sets the geographical and historical context for the events described. Jerusalem, the heart of Jewish religious life, was a significant location for Jesus' ministry. The city was bustling with activity, especially during the Passover, which is the time frame for this passage. The Greek word for Jerusalem, "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma), emphasizes the city's sacred status. Jesus' presence in Jerusalem during the Passover highlights His role as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, as He engages with the people in the very center of Jewish worship and tradition.

at the Passover Feast
The Passover Feast was one of the most important Jewish festivals, commemorating the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. It was a time when Jews from all over the world gathered in Jerusalem. The Greek term "Πάσχα" (Pascha) is used here, which directly ties Jesus' actions and teachings to the themes of liberation and salvation. This setting underscores the significance of Jesus' mission as the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice would bring about a new exodus from sin.

many people saw the signs
The "signs" refer to the miracles Jesus performed, which served as divine attestations of His messianic identity. The Greek word "σημεῖα" (sēmeia) indicates not just miraculous acts but also symbolic acts that point to deeper spiritual truths. These signs were meant to reveal Jesus' divine authority and to invite belief in Him as the Son of God. The witnessing of these signs by "many people" suggests a widespread impact and foreshadows the growing public awareness and interest in Jesus' ministry.

He was doing
This phrase emphasizes the active and ongoing nature of Jesus' ministry. The Greek verb "ἐποίει" (epoiei) is in the imperfect tense, indicating continuous action. Jesus' works were not isolated events but part of a continuous demonstration of His divine power and compassion. This ongoing activity reflects the relentless nature of God's love and the persistent call to faith and repentance.

and believed in His name
To "believe in His name" is to trust in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Greek word for "believe," "ἐπίστευσαν" (episteusan), implies a deep, personal trust and reliance. The "name" of Jesus, "ὄνομα" (onoma), represents His character, authority, and mission. Belief in His name is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative trust that acknowledges Jesus as Lord and Savior. This belief is the foundation of Christian faith and the means by which individuals enter into a saving relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
Central figure in the passage, performing signs that lead people to believe in His name.

2. Jerusalem
The city where the events take place, significant as the religious and cultural center of Jewish life.

3. Passover Feast
A major Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, drawing many people to Jerusalem.

4. The People
Those who witnessed Jesus' signs and believed in His name, representing a range of responses to His ministry.

5. Signs
Miraculous acts performed by Jesus, serving as evidence of His divine authority and identity.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Signs
Jesus' signs were not just miracles but were meant to reveal His divine nature and mission. They serve as a testament to His authority and the truth of His message.

Belief Rooted in Evidence
The people's belief in Jesus' name was based on the evidence of the signs. This underscores the importance of faith that is informed and supported by the truth of Scripture and the reality of Jesus' works.

The Significance of Passover
The timing of these events during the Passover Feast is significant, as it connects Jesus' mission to the deliverance and redemption themes central to Passover, foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice.

Faith Beyond Miracles
While signs can lead to belief, true faith must go beyond the miraculous and rest in a personal relationship with Jesus and understanding of His teachings.

Witnessing to Others
Just as the signs led many to believe, our lives and testimonies should reflect Christ's work in us, serving as a witness to others of His power and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting of Jerusalem during the Passover Feast enhance the significance of the signs Jesus performed?

2. In what ways do the signs Jesus performed in John 2:23 relate to the purpose of His overall ministry as described in John 20:30-31?

3. How can we ensure that our faith is rooted in more than just the miraculous, but in a deep understanding of who Jesus is?

4. What parallels can we draw between the deliverance celebrated at Passover and the deliverance offered through Jesus Christ?

5. How can we be effective witnesses to others, using our own experiences and understanding of Jesus' works to lead them to faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 20:30-31
This passage highlights the purpose of Jesus' signs, which is to lead people to believe that He is the Messiah, the Son of God.

Exodus 12
Provides background on the Passover Feast, emphasizing its significance in Jewish history and its role in setting the stage for Jesus' ministry.

Acts 2:22
Peter speaks of Jesus' miracles as evidence of His divine mission, similar to the signs mentioned in John 2:23.

1 Corinthians 1:22-24
Discusses how Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but Christ crucified is the power and wisdom of God, reflecting the varied responses to Jesus' signs.