”The Gospel of John” by Barrett Hammer - Part 8

October 26, 2025 - Sunday AM Bible Class

 

This episode explores the crucial role women played as faith witnesses in the Gospel of John. Building on last week’s look at abiding and the true vine, the speaker leads a class discussion that defines what a witness is in biblical terms, contrasts eyewitness testimony with being a faith witness today, and highlights how words, actions, and lifestyle communicate the gospel.

The episode walks through three extended Johannine encounters: the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4), Mary and Martha with the raising of Lazarus (John 11), and Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb (John 20). Each story is read and unpacked to show how women’s testimony prompted belief, catalyzed community transformation, and demonstrated devotion—often despite marginalization, grief, or personal imperfection.

Class participants and references include the session’s teacher and contributions from classmates (Jeremy, Phil, Tim, Nell and others are mentioned), with connections to broader New Testament examples (Luke 8’s group of women followers, Acts 1:8 and Acts 8’s Samaritan harvest, Romans 16:1 on Phoebe, Acts 9’s Tabitha/Dorcas, and Mark 15’s women at the cross). Barrett emphasizes the “trickle-down” effect of witness—how one person’s testimony can prepare a community for later ministry.

Key takeaways include practical and theological lessons: faith witnessing is shown through integrity, sacrificial love, and consistent daily living; believers can and should share the gospel boldly but graciously; grief and failure don’t disqualify someone from witnessing; worshipful devotion points others to Christ; and God often uses the unexpected and imperfect to accomplish his work. The episode closes with concrete suggestions for being a faithful witness at work, in community, and in difficult moments, and a reminder that ordinary lives can have extraordinary, long-term spiritual impact.

 

Duration 42:28