John 3:14

Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,

Study Bible

Just as Moses
This phrase refers to the historical account found in the Old Testament, specifically in Numbers 21:4-9. Moses, the leader of the Israelites, is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible. The comparison here is significant because it draws a parallel between Moses' actions and the forthcoming actions of Jesus. The Greek word used for "just as" (καθώς) indicates a direct comparison, suggesting that the events involving Moses are a foreshadowing of what is to come in the life of Jesus.

lifted up the snake
The lifting up of the snake refers to the bronze serpent that Moses made and set upon a pole. In the original Hebrew context, the word for "snake" (נָחָשׁ, nachash) is used. This act was a divine instruction given to Moses to provide a means of healing for the Israelites who were bitten by venomous snakes. The lifting up of the snake symbolizes an act of salvation and deliverance, which is a precursor to the salvation offered through Jesus Christ.

in the wilderness
The wilderness represents a place of testing and trial for the Israelites. It is a significant setting in the biblical narrative, symbolizing both physical and spiritual challenges. The Greek term for "wilderness" (ἔρημος, erēmos) conveys a sense of desolation and isolation, yet it is also a place where God’s provision and presence are profoundly experienced. This context underscores the desperation and need for divine intervention.

so the Son of Man
The title "Son of Man" is a messianic term that Jesus frequently uses to refer to Himself. It has roots in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Daniel 7:13-14, where it describes a heavenly figure endowed with authority and glory. The Greek phrase "ὁ υἱὸς τοῦ ἀνθρώπου" emphasizes both the humanity and the divine mission of Jesus, highlighting His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

must be lifted up
The phrase "must be lifted up" is a direct reference to the crucifixion of Jesus. The Greek word for "lifted up" (ὑψωθῆναι, hypsōthēnai) carries a dual meaning: it refers to both the physical act of being raised on the cross and the exaltation that follows through His resurrection and ascension. This necessity ("must") indicates the divine plan and purpose for Jesus' sacrificial death, which is central to the Christian faith as the means of redemption for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
A central figure in the Old Testament, Moses was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage. He is a prophet and lawgiver, and his actions in the wilderness are pivotal to understanding the context of John 3:14.

2. The Snake in the Wilderness
This refers to the event recorded in Numbers 21:4-9, where God instructed Moses to make a bronze serpent and set it on a pole so that anyone bitten by a snake could look at it and live. This event is a foreshadowing of Christ's crucifixion.

3. The Son of Man
A title Jesus frequently used for Himself, emphasizing both His humanity and His divine mission. In John 3:14, it highlights His role in salvation through His crucifixion.

4. The Wilderness
The setting of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, representing a place of testing, rebellion, and divine provision.

5. The Crucifixion
The event where Jesus was "lifted up" on the cross, providing salvation to all who believe in Him, paralleling the lifting up of the bronze serpent.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Typology
The bronze serpent is a type of Christ. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, we are saved by looking to Christ in faith.

The Necessity of Faith
Salvation requires faith. Just as the Israelites had to look at the bronze serpent to be healed, we must look to Jesus and believe in His sacrifice for our salvation.

The Universality of Sin and Salvation
The snake bites affected all Israelites, symbolizing the universality of sin. Similarly, Christ's sacrifice is available to all who believe, regardless of their background.

The Power of the Cross
The lifting up of Jesus on the cross is central to the Christian faith. It is the means by which God provided salvation, demonstrating His love and justice.

Living in Light of the Cross
As believers, we are called to live in the reality of what Christ accomplished on the cross, continually looking to Him for guidance, strength, and forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 help us understand the significance of Jesus being "lifted up" on the cross?

2. In what ways does the title "Son of Man" enhance our understanding of Jesus' mission and identity in John 3:14?

3. How can we apply the principle of looking to Jesus in faith in our daily struggles and challenges?

4. What does the universality of the snake bites in the wilderness teach us about the nature of sin and the need for a Savior?

5. How can we live out the reality of the cross in our interactions with others, especially those who do not yet know Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:4-9
This passage provides the background for the bronze serpent event, illustrating the connection between the Old Testament and Jesus' crucifixion.

John 12:32-33
Jesus speaks about being "lifted up" to draw all people to Himself, directly connecting to His crucifixion and the salvation it brings.

2 Corinthians 5:21
This verse explains the purpose of Jesus being "lifted up" as He became sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God.

Isaiah 53:5
The prophecy of the suffering servant who was "pierced for our transgressions," pointing to the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.