Questions this study answers:

1. Why does John call Jesus “the Word”? Because Jesus is God’s fullest self-revelation — God speaking and showing Himself to us — and the One through whom all things were made.

2. What does it mean that Jesus is “the light”? He brings truth, life, and clarity into a dark world, though many prefer the darkness because their deeds are evil.

3. Why does it matter that John was an eyewitness? Because the Christian faith rests on history, not myth. John reports what he actually saw, heard, and touched. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” — John 1:14 (NKJV)

Speaker: Dr. Toby Holt is the President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, a Reformed seminary in Colorado Springs. He is known for clear, down-to-earth Bible teaching, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Listen and go deeper: This sermon is part of the John Explained study from New Geneva Theological Seminary. Find more verse-by-verse teaching across the Bible at newgeneva.org. To support this teaching ministry, visit newgeneva.org/give.

In John 1:19-34, John the Baptist points away from himself to Jesus: "Behold! The Lamb of God." Dr. Toby Holt explains John's one great mission — to prepare the way for the Messiah. Asked who he is, John refuses every title, calling himself only "a voice crying in the wilderness." Because Jews normally baptized only Gentile converts, baptizing Jews implied Israel itself needed to repent. He names Jesus the Lamb of God, pointing to the Passover lamb and the cross.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why was John baptizing people? As a call to repentance. Because Jews usually baptized only Gentile converts, his baptism implied that Israel too needed to turn back to God.

2. Why did John call Jesus "the Lamb of God"? Because Jesus is the true Passover Lamb who would die in the place of sinners, taking away their sin.

3. What was John the Baptist's mission? To prepare the way for the Messiah and point people to Jesus — never to himself.

"Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" — John 1:29 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In this sermon on John 1, Dr. Toby Holt explains the weight behind John the Baptist's words when he points to Jesus as the Lamb of God. The sermon moves through John's testimony, the broken religious system around him, the meaning of Passover, and the truth that animal sacrifices could only point forward to the Son of God who would die in the place of sinners.

Questions this sermon answers:

1. What was John the Baptist saying about himself and about Christ?

2. Why does the language of lamb and sacrifice matter in John 1?

3. How does the Passover point forward to the atonement of Jesus?

John 1 teaches us to behold Christ as the true Lamb, the promised Savior, and the Son of God.

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In this exposition of John 1, Dr. Toby Holt shows how Jesus gathers His disciples without needing them, yet graciously calls and sends them. The sermon focuses on Philip, Nathanael, the skepticism surrounding Nazareth, and the way Christ reveals both His knowledge of the heart and His identity as the true meeting place between heaven and earth.

Questions this sermon answers:

1. Why does Jesus call disciples if He needs nothing from us?

2. What does Nathanael's skepticism reveal about human expectations?

3. How does Jesus answer doubt by revealing who He is?

John 1 shows Christ patiently drawing doubters into faith and giving His disciples far more than they first understand.

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

When the wine runs out, Mary brings the problem to Jesus. He says, "My hour has not yet come" — a phrase that in John always points to the crucifixion — then turns water in six stone jars into the finest wine. John calls it a "sign," revealing His glory and pointing to the new covenant.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did Jesus say "My hour has not yet come"? In John, "His hour" always points to the cross. Even at a wedding, Jesus' eyes were on why He came.

2. Why does John call this a "sign"? Because it points beyond itself — revealing Jesus' glory and pointing ahead to the new covenant in His blood.

3. What does this first miracle reveal? That Jesus is the Son of God, who brings abundant new life — the best saved for last. "This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him." — John 2:11 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Nicodemus was a Pharisee and ruler, yet Jesus tells even him he must be born again. We are born spiritually dead and cannot give ourselves new life — the new birth is God's own work. Out of this talk comes the most famous verse in the Bible.

Questions this study answers:

1. Who was Nicodemus? A Pharisee and respected member of the ruling council, who came to Jesus by night with sincere questions.

2. What does it mean to be "born again"? It is a new spiritual birth that only God can give — a heart made alive, not a self-improvement project.

3. Why can't we save ourselves? Because we are born spiritually dead and cannot give ourselves new life. Salvation is God's gift, received by faith in Christ. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." — John 3:16 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. Who were the Samaritans? A despised, mixed people whom the Jews avoided. That Jesus would speak with a Samaritan — and a woman — was shocking.

2. What is the “living water”? It is the eternal life and satisfaction Jesus gives, which truly quenches the thirst of the soul that no earthly thing can.

3. Why is this story so encouraging? Because Jesus sought out an outcast and offered her everything. No one is beyond the reach of His grace. “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” — John 4:14 (NKJV)

Speaker: Dr. Toby Holt is the President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, a Reformed seminary in Colorado Springs. He is known for clear, down-to-earth Bible teaching, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Listen and go deeper: This sermon is part of the John Explained study from New Geneva Theological Seminary. Find more verse-by-verse teaching across the Bible at newgeneva.org. To support this teaching ministry, visit newgeneva.org/give.

At the pool of Bethesda, Jesus heals the man with a word: "Rise, take up your bed and walk." The leaders object that carrying a mat breaks the Sabbath — one of dozens of extra rules. The deeper offense: Jesus calls God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why were the leaders angry about the healing? Because Jesus healed on the Sabbath and told the man to carry his mat, breaking their man-made rules — though not God's law.

2. Is it ever right to "work" on the Sabbath? Yes. Works of mercy and necessity — like caring for the sick — have always been lawful. Jesus showed mercy, not lawlessness.

3. Why did this healing stir such opposition? Because Jesus called God His own Father, claiming equality with God — a claim that drives the conflict through the rest of John.

"Rise, take up your bed and walk." — John 5:8 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 6:1-15, Jesus feeds thousands from a boy's lunch of five loaves and two fish. Dr. Toby Holt shows the miracle is a sign — and a test of what the crowd really wanted. Jesus tests Philip, then takes the loaves and fish, gives thanks, and feeds everyone with twelve baskets to spare — the giving of thanks pointing ahead to the Lord's Supper. When the crowd tries to make Him king by force, He withdraws.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did the people follow Jesus? Mainly to see His miracles and receive His benefits, not yet to know Him as Lord.

2. What did the miracle point to? It was a sign that Jesus is the true Bread of Life, foreshadowing the supper He would give His people.

3. Why did Jesus withdraw when they tried to crown Him? Because they wanted a king to meet their physical needs, not the Savior who came to give Himself. They wanted the bread, not the Baker.

"This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world." — John 6:14 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 6:60-71, a large crowd that had eagerly followed Jesus suddenly turns and leaves. Dr. Toby Holt examines the hard teaching that thinned the crowd to a faithful few.

The people loved Jesus' miracles, but when His teaching grew hard, many grumbled and left. What drove them off was His teaching that no one can come to Him unless the Father draws them — salvation is God's gracious work. When Jesus asks the Twelve if they will leave too, Peter answers for them.

Questions this study answers:

1. What first drew the crowds to Jesus? Mostly His miracles and the benefits they hoped to gain — not His teaching or His person.

2. Why did so many walk away? Because Jesus' teaching was hard to accept, especially that salvation is God's gracious work and not something we achieve.

3. Why did the Twelve stay? Because, as Peter said, there is no one else to go to. Jesus alone has the words of eternal life.

"Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." — John 6:68 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

God is just and must punish sin, yet how can a just Judge forgive the guilty? The leaders think they have cornered Jesus, but He says, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone first." One by one they leave. He tells her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." The dilemma is answered at the cross.

Questions this study answers:

1. What was the trap set for Jesus? Either answer seemed to doom Him — condemning her broke Roman law, freeing her seemed to ignore God's law. Jesus escaped both without compromising truth.

2. What is the "divine dilemma"? God is perfectly just and cannot ignore sin, yet He desires to forgive sinners. How He does both is the heart of the gospel.

3. How can a holy God forgive the guilty? Justice is not waived but satisfied — at the cross, where Jesus bears the punishment so sinners can go free.

"Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more." — John 8:11 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. What does a shepherd do? A shepherd both feeds and protects the flock. Jesus does both perfectly, unlike the failed leaders of Israel.

2. Who are the "other sheep" not of this fold? The Gentiles — people of every nation whom Jesus would also gather into one flock under one Shepherd.

3. What does it mean to be Jesus' sheep? It means knowing His voice and following Him, and being kept safe by a Shepherd who laid down His life for you.

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." — John 10:11 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Jesus loved Lazarus, yet let him die — not from neglect, but for a greater glory. Martha trusts God even as she grieves, and Jesus responds with a staggering claim: "I am the resurrection and the life." Our comfort in suffering is the presence and promises of God.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did Jesus wait while Lazarus died? Not from neglect, but for a greater purpose — to display God's glory and deepen His people's faith.

2. Where is God when His people are hurting? Right there with them. Jesus wept at the grave even though He knew what He was about to do.

3. How does God bring good out of grief? He weaves even death and loss into His good purposes, as the raising of Lazarus would soon show.

"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live." — John 11:25 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did Mary anoint Jesus? Out of deep love and worship, giving Him her most costly treasure to prepare Him for burial.

2. What was wrong with Judas's objection? He sounded generous but was a thief who cared nothing for the poor. His heart wanted gain, not Christ.

3. What does this teach about our motives? It asks why we really come to Jesus — to use Him for our own ends, or to love and worship Him for who He is.

"Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial." — John 12:7 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 12:12-19, crowds wave palm branches and shout “Hosanna!” as Jesus enters Jerusalem. In this study, Dr. Toby Holt explains what they were really asking for — and how they misunderstood their King. “Hosanna” means “save us now.” The crowds wanted a king to free them from Rome, so they greeted Jesus like a conquering hero. But Jesus rides in on a humble donkey, exactly as the prophet Zechariah had foretold — a different kind of King, who came first to save His people from sin, not from Rome. Dr. Holt notes that within days many in that same crowd would call for His death. Jesus comes lowly now; one day He will return as the conquering King of Kings.

Questions this study answers:

1. What does “Hosanna” mean? It means “save us now.” The crowds were crying out for rescue — but mostly from Rome, not from their sin.

2. Why did Jesus ride a donkey? To fulfill prophecy and to show what kind of King He is: humble and approachable, not a warlord.

3. Why did the crowd’s cheers turn to anger? Because Jesus was not the political deliverer they wanted. When He did not meet their expectations, many turned against Him. “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’ The King of Israel!” — John 12:13 (NKJV)

Speaker: Dr. Toby Holt is the President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, a Reformed seminary in Colorado Springs. He is known for clear, down-to-earth Bible teaching, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Listen and go deeper: This sermon is part of the John Explained study from New Geneva Theological Seminary. Find more verse-by-verse teaching across the Bible at newgeneva.org. To support this teaching ministry, visit newgeneva.org/give.

In this expository sermon on John 12:27-36, Dr. Toby Holt of New Geneva Theological Seminary teaches that Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation, accomplished not by His miracles but by the singular work of the cross. When the Father's voice thundered from heaven for the third and final time in Christ's ministry, it announced the glory of God in the coming crucifixion, the judgment of the world, the defeat of Satan, and Christ drawing all people to Himself as the true Light. The exclusivity of Christ, penal substitutionary atonement, and the necessity of the cross stand at the center of this Reformed exposition.

Questions this sermon answers:

1. What is the main issue in this passage? In this expository sermon on John 12:27-36, Dr.

2. How does this text point us to Christ? It shows the need for God's grace and the hope fulfilled in the gospel.

3. How should Christians respond? With faith, repentance, and renewed trust in the Lord's Word.

"Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save Me from this hour? But for this purpose I came to this hour. Father, glorify Your name." - John 12:27-28 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 13:1-17, the Lord of all kneels down to wash the dirty feet of His disciples. Dr. Toby Holt explains the stunning humility — and deeper meaning — of that act.

Foot-washing was the lowest servant's job, yet Jesus takes the towel and basin Himself. When Peter protests, Jesus says, "If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me," pointing to the deeper cleansing only He gives. Even Judas's feet were washed.

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did Jesus wash the disciples' feet? To show that true greatness is humble service, and to picture the deeper cleansing from sin that only He provides.

2. What did Jesus mean by "you have no part with Me"? He pointed beyond dirty feet to the spiritual washing every person needs — to be cleansed by Christ.

3. How does this apply to us? Jesus calls His followers to serve one another humbly, just as He served them. "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet." — John 13:14 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 14:1-6, with the cross just hours away, Jesus comforts His fearful disciples. Dr. Toby Holt opens some of the most reassuring words in all of Scripture.

The disciples are shaken — Jesus has spoken of leaving, of a betrayer, of Peter's denial. Into that fear He says, "Let not your heart be troubled," promising a prepared place in His Father's house. When Thomas admits they don't know the way, Jesus answers: "I am the way, the truth, and the life."

Questions this study answers:

1. How does Jesus comfort troubled hearts? He points beyond the present trouble to a prepared place with the Father and to Himself as the sure way there.

2. What did Jesus mean, "I am the way"? He is not one path among many; He is the only way to the Father. Salvation is found in Him alone.

3. Why does this passage still speak to us? Because we, like the disciples, face fear and loss. Jesus' promise of a home and a way home steadies anxious hearts.

"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." — John 14:6 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. Is the Holy Spirit a force or a Person? A Person — the Helper sent by the Father. He is God Himself, not an impersonal power.

2. What does the Spirit do in a believer? He teaches, reminds us of Christ's words, convicts us of sin, makes us holy, and gives us courage.

3. Why is the Spirit's coming such good news? Because God now lives permanently within His people — a closeness even the Old Testament saints longed for. "And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever." — John 14:16 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 15:1-8, Jesus calls Himself the true vine and His followers the branches. Dr. Toby Holt explains what it means to "abide" in Christ — and why it is a matter of life and death.

A branch cut off from the vine withers; believers are completely dependent on Christ. To abide is to stay closely connected to Him, drawing life from Him daily. The Father even prunes His people, cutting back good things for better ones. The proof of living faith is fruit.

Questions this study answers:

1. What does it mean to abide in Christ? To stay closely joined to Jesus and draw your life from Him, the way a branch depends on the vine.

2. Why does God "prune" His people? Like a gardener, He trims away even good things to produce something better. Pruning is a sign of His care, not His anger.

3. How can you tell if faith is real? By its fruit. A life truly joined to Christ will, over time, bear the fruit of His Spirit.

"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." — John 15:5 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

No one is truly neutral about Jesus. In John 15:18-27, Jesus warns His followers that the world will hate them as it hated Him. Dr. Toby Holt explains why there is no spiritual middle ground. Because they belong to Christ, the disciples no longer belong to the world, which will treat them as it treated their Master. Holt takes apart the idea that people are born neutral "free agents"; the Bible says we are by nature turned from God until He changes our hearts. But Jesus promises the Helper, who testifies of Him.

Questions this study answers:

1. Is anyone spiritually neutral? No. The Bible teaches we are naturally turned from God until He changes us. Everyone is on one side or the other.

2. Why does the world resist the gospel? Because believers are fundamentally different, and that difference provokes hostility. Jesus said the world hated Him first.

3. What hope is there for those who face hostility? Jesus sends the Helper, the Holy Spirit, who bears witness to Christ and strengthens His people to stand.

"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you." — John 15:18 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. How can Christians have peace in a troubled world? Not by escaping trouble, but by trusting the One who has already won. Jesus promises peace in Him in the middle of hardship.

2. Did Jesus hide the cost from His followers? No. He told them honestly they would face trouble and scatter, preparing them for hard days rather than promising an easy life.

3. What does "I have overcome the world" mean? The outcome is already settled. Christ's victory is sure, so His people can take heart no matter what they face. "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace… be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." — John 16:33 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Questions this study answers:

1. What is the High Priestly Prayer? Jesus' great prayer in John 17, where He intercedes for His followers just before the cross, like a priest praying for his people.

2. What did Jesus ask for His people? That they be protected from evil and made holy by God's truth, while remaining in the world as His witnesses.

3. What comfort does this prayer give? Jesus loses none whom the Father gives Him. Our security rests on His faithfulness, not the strength of our own.

"Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth." — John 17:17 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Judas leads soldiers to Gethsemane. When Jesus says, "I am He," the armed party draws back and falls to the ground — a glimpse of His true power. He could have walked free, but asks only that His disciples go. When Peter cuts off a servant's ear, Jesus heals it and says, "Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?"

Questions this study answers:

1. Why didn't Jesus fight back or flee? Because He came to die for His people. He surrendered willingly, even protecting His disciples in the process.

2. What did "I am He" reveal? It echoes God's own name, and the soldiers fell back at the words. Even at His arrest, Jesus was in control.

3. What is "the cup" Jesus speaks of? The cup of God's judgment against sin. Jesus chose to drink it fully so that those who trust Him never will.

"Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" — John 18:11 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Scripture: John 18
Speaker: Dr. Toby B. Holt
Transcript and study page: https://www.newgeneva.org/sermon/the-denials-of-peter

Chapters

1. 0:00 - Peter's Denial and the Grace of Christ
2. 0:28 - From Twelve Disciples to Zero: The Sheep Scattered
3. 2:39 - The Arrest and the Two Disciples Who Followed
4. 4:27 - Two High Priests: Annas, Caiaphas, and the Politics of Power
5. 6:40 - The Kangaroo Court: A Trial Tried in Secret at Night
6. 9:00 - Warming by the Fire: Close Enough to Christ, Not Too Close
7. 9:57 - Expediency and Substitutionary Atonement: Caiaphas Half Right
8. 14:21 - Jesus Interrogated: Where Are the Witnesses?
9. 15:59 - The Officer's Slap and the Humility of God
10. 17:20 - The Disciples and the Doctrine: Different but Not Heretical
11. 19:40 - The Humility and Intercession of Christ for Sinners
12. 21:03 - Peter's Second and Third Denials and the Rooster's Crow
13. 23:47 - The Cursing Denial and the Gaze of Christ
14. 24:51 - Faithfulness in the Abstract Versus Faith That Is Tested

Full transcript and caption timing are maintained in the New Geneva canonical transcript package.

"What is truth?" Pilate asked Jesus that question and walked away without waiting for the answer. In John 18:28-40, Dr. Toby Holt examines the trial of Jesus before the Roman governor.

The Jewish leaders bring Jesus to Pilate because only Rome could carry out an execution. Pilate questions Him about being a king, and Jesus answers, "My kingdom is not of this world." The two talk past each other — one of eternal truth, the other of politics. Finding no guilt, Pilate offers to release a prisoner, but the crowd demands Barabbas. The guilty goes free; the innocent is condemned.

Questions this study answers:

1. Who was Pilate? The Roman governor of Judea, responsible for order. He found no crime in Jesus but lacked the courage to release Him.

2. Why did the leaders bring Jesus to Pilate? Only Rome could authorize an execution, and a quiet stoning was too risky at Passover. So they needed Pilate's verdict.

3. Why did the crowd choose Barabbas? They chose a guilty criminal over the innocent Jesus. In that exchange we see the gospel: the guilty go free because the innocent takes their place.

"My kingdom is not of this world… but now My kingdom is not from here." — John 18:36 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 19:14-24, Pilate fixes a sign above the dying Jesus: "The King of the Jews." Dr. Toby Holt shows how the cross is the true throne of the King. Jesus is handed over on the day the Passover lambs were prepared — the true Lamb dying at the appointed hour. He carries the crossbar to Golgotha and is crucified between two criminals. Pilate writes the charge in three languages and refuses to change it. The soldiers gamble for His seamless robe, unknowingly fulfilling Scripture written a thousand years earlier.

Questions this study answers:

1. Did Jesus really have to die? Yes. His death was God's plan to rescue sinners, foretold long before in Scripture. He died willingly as the true Passover Lamb.

2. Why was Jesus called a king? Pilate meant it as mockery, but it was the truth. Jesus reigns as King — and the cross, not a palace, is where He won His people.

3. What prophecies were fulfilled at the cross? Details like the soldiers casting lots for His clothing fulfilled Scripture written centuries earlier, showing God's hand over every moment.

"And the writing was: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS." — John 19:19 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In John 19:25-37, Jesus speaks His final words from the cross: "It is finished." Dr. Toby Holt explains why those three words are the heart of the gospel.

From the cross, Jesus entrusts His mother to John. Then, having borne the full weight of God's judgment against sin, He cries, "It is finished," and gives up His spirit. The debt is paid in full — nothing left for us to add — and the Old Testament sacrifices are complete. To confirm His death, a soldier pierces His side, and blood and water flow out, fulfilling Scripture.

Questions this study answers:

1. What was "finished"? The full payment for sin. Jesus bore God's judgment in the place of His people, so nothing more needs to be added to be saved.

2. Why does it matter that Jesus' bones were not broken? It fulfilled Scripture about the Passover lamb, showing Jesus is the true Lamb of God whose death rescues His people.

3. How do we know Jesus really died? A soldier pierced His side and blood and water came out — clear proof of death, witnessed and recorded by John, who was there.

"So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!' And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit." — John 19:30 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

In this expository sermon on John 20, Dr. Toby Holt of New Geneva Theological Seminary teaches that the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ is the capstone of the gospel on which the truth of Christianity rises or falls. He shows that the empty tomb, the undisturbed grave clothes, and Christ's appearance to Mary Magdalene are historical evidence that death has been defeated, and that the risen Christ not only forgives believers but adopts them as sons and daughters of God.

Questions this sermon answers:

1. What is the main issue in this passage? In this expository sermon on John 20, Dr.

2. How does this text point us to Christ? It shows the need for God's grace and the hope fulfilled in the gospel.

3. How should Christians respond? With faith, repentance, and renewed trust in the Lord's Word.

"Now the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb." - John 20:1 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Not always — but doubt can blind us to plain evidence. In John 20:19-29, the risen Jesus meets the doubting disciple Thomas. Dr. Toby Holt looks at faith, evidence, and the scars of Christ. On the evening of the resurrection, Jesus appears in a locked room, shows His wounded hands and side, and gives peace. Thomas, absent, refuses to believe unless he can touch the wounds. A week later Jesus returns and offers exactly that. Thomas already had ample evidence — and face to face with the risen Christ, he gives the Bible's clearest confession: "My Lord and my God!"

Questions this study answers:

1. What are the proofs of the resurrection? Jesus appeared bodily, showed His wounds, and was seen by many witnesses over many days. Even Thomas's about-face is part of that evidence.

2. Was Thomas only a doubter? No. Elsewhere he was brave and loyal. His doubt here stands out precisely because he had already seen and heard so much.

3. What does this teach about faith? Genuine faith rests on real evidence, not blind feeling. Jesus calls "blessed" those who believe the trustworthy testimony even without seeing.

"And Thomas answered and said to Him, 'My Lord and my God!'" — John 20:28 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

Yes. In John 21:15-19, the risen Jesus meets Peter — who had denied Him three times — and gently restores him. Dr. Toby Holt shows that failure is not the end for those Jesus loves.

Over a breakfast on the shore, Jesus asks Peter three times, "Do you love Me?" — one for each denial. Each time Peter says yes, Jesus gives a charge: feed My lambs, tend My sheep, feed My sheep. Love shows itself in faithful service. Jesus then foretells Peter would one day die for Him, and closes: "Follow Me."

Questions this study answers:

1. Why did Jesus ask Peter the same question three times? Peter had denied Jesus three times, so Jesus gave him three chances to affirm his love — a tender restoration, not an interrogation.

2. What did Jesus mean by "feed My sheep"? He was calling Peter to care for His people — to nourish and protect them. Real love for Jesus shows itself in serving others.

3. What does this say to us when we fail? Jesus restores those who fall and calls them back to service. The call is always the same: "Follow Me."

"Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?… Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.' Jesus said to him, 'Feed My sheep.'" — John 21:17 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.

A rumor once spread that the apostle John would never die. In John 21:20-25, the very end of the Gospel, Dr. Toby Holt explains what Jesus actually said — and what He really meant. When Peter asked about John's future, Jesus replied, "If I want him to remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me." People took this to mean John would never die, but John corrects the rumor. Holt explains Jesus' words point to His coming in judgment on Jerusalem in A.D. 70, when the temple was destroyed — an event John lived to see. The Gospel closes with John's sign-off.

Questions this study answers:

1. What did Jesus mean that John might "remain" until He came? Not that John would never die. He told Peter to stop comparing and simply follow Him; John later corrected the rumor.

2. What happened in A.D. 70, and how does it connect? Rome destroyed Jerusalem and its temple, exactly as Jesus warned. Holt links Jesus' words here to that coming in judgment.

3. How does John's Gospel end? John signs off as an eyewitness who insists his testimony is true, saying the world could not hold all the books that might be written about Jesus.

"Jesus said to him, 'If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.'" — John 21:22 (NKJV)

Dr. Toby Holt is President of New Geneva Theological Seminary, and his sermons have been downloaded more than 1.9 million times on SermonAudio. Find more verse-by-verse Bible teaching at newgeneva.org; support this ministry at newgeneva.org/give.