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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: John 2:1-11

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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of John 2:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a significant marker in the redemptive history, where Jesus begins to reveal his glory and inaugurates the New Covenant through the first of his signs. The transformation of water into wine at the wedding in Cana prefigures the abundant blessings of the New Covenant, contrasting it with the insufficiency of the Old Covenant symbolized by the stone water jars meant for purification. This first miracle is not merely a demonstration of power but a revelation of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling the promises made throughout the Old Testament and pointing forward to the ultimate outpouring of sovereign grace through his death and resurrection.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the term 'σημεῖον' (sēmeion) for 'sign' is critical, emphasizing that Jesus' miracles are not just wonders but revelations of divine truth pointing to his identity as the Christ. The choice of 'οἶνος' (oinos) for wine highlights the theme of joy and abundance, qualities of the kingdom inaugurated by Christ. This tradition emphasizes these nuances to underscore the covenantal and eschatological significance of the passage.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition differs from the Roman Catholic view that might emphasize the sacramental nature of this miracle as a basis for the doctrine of transubstantiation. Instead, we see it as a covenantal sign pointing to the spiritual realities of the New Covenant. Unlike some evangelical traditions that may focus on the moral aspects of the miracle, we emphasize its place in the unfolding drama of redemption, highlighting God's sovereign grace and Christ's fulfillment of the covenant promises.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we should encourage our congregation to see the glory of Christ revealed in his miracles as a foretaste of the abundant life promised in the New Covenant. Emphasize the transformation from old to new as a picture of regeneration through Christ's sovereign grace. Encourage believers to rest in the sufficiency of Christ, who fulfills all that the law and the prophets anticipated. Remind them that our joy and security lie not in our circumstances but in the unshakeable decree of God, who has begun a good work in us and will bring it to completion in Christ Jesus.

Cross-References: Isaiah 25:6-9; Matthew 26:28; John 6:35; Hebrews 9:13-14; Revelation 19:9

Doctrinal Connections: Covenant of Grace; Christ's Mediatorial Work; Sovereignty of God; The Sacraments as Means of Grace; Eschatological Fulfillment

Topics & Themes

Covenant of GraceChrist's Mediatorial WorkSovereignty of GodThe Sacraments as Means of GraceEschatological Fulfillment

Scripture References

John 2:1-11

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