Daily Lectionary | Genesis 10 & John 5:25-end

Genesis 10 

Summary 

Noah pronounced a curse on Ham (and his son Canaan) after Ham’s rebellion. Of the three sons, Shem takes precedence, with Japeth enjoying the security of dwelling with Shem. In chapter 10, we have the next section of “these are the generations” which detail the lines of Japbeth, Ham, and Shem. Of note, from the line of Ham, comes Nimrod, who was a “mighty hunger before the Lord,” referring to his violent character. Canaan, importantly, was the father of peoples who would be enemies of the people of God. In Genesis 10, we have a catalog of 70 nations that sets the table for the coming chapter.

Reflection Questions

1. What cities and kingdoms is Nimrod responsible for? What is the significance of Babel (Babylon) and Assyria in the Bible?

2. According to Genesis 10:32, what’s the purpose of this section? 

John 5:25-end

Summary

In the Gospel of John, the theme of witness and trial is prominent. Jesus will be put on trial, but he will also call witnesses throughout the Gospel to confirm his identity. Jesus claims that he can do nothing on his own. John is the first witness to Jesus, to the truth. Jesus’ testimony is even greater than John’s. And the Father’s testimony is even greater. But the Jewish opposition to Jesus disallows them to hear the voice of the Father, because they don’t believe the one the Lord sent. But even the Scriptures, which they “search in vain,” bear witness to Jesus. It’s actually his opponents who are own trial, and their supposed greatest witness Moses both bears witness to Jesus and accuse them! 

Reflection Questions

1. Work through the passage and list the witnesses to Jesus and the role they play. 

2. A principle in the Old Testament is that testimony has to be established by two or three witnesses. How does Jesus establishes his credibility? What evidence for Jesus’ claims do you find most convincing? Why do you trust his word?