Our lesson occurs in the Jerusalem Temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. Sometimes referred to as the “feast”, this was a seven-day celebration that celebrated God’s protection and providence. This occurred during the time of the barley harvest. The tabernacles or booths that the feast was named for represented their time in the wilderness before coming to the Promised Land. The tents and the harvest fruits remind God’s people of how He provided for them in the past and continues to provide for them now. Jesus is preaching in the Temple area to the people concerning many theological concepts about His relationship to the Father. Verses 29 and 30 leads us into our lesson:
28 Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. 29 And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him. 30 As he spake these words, many believed on him. John 8:27-30 (KJV)
Our lesson begins with Jesus speaking to them that believed on Him, and yet there is still confusion and unbelief on their part as Jesus explains His discipleship requirements.
