To read—St. John ii. 1-11. Golden Text—Ver. 2.
Last lesson told of disciples coming to Christ one by one. John the Baptist pointed to Him as Lamb of God—the sin-bearer. Andrew and John, hearing this, followed Christ. Andrew brought his brother Simon. Christ bade Philip follow Him, and he brought his friend Nathanael. Now Christ works miracle which confirms faith of all.
I. The Need (1-5). Third day after call of Nathanael. Cana, his home, near Nazareth, sixty miles from Bethabara (i. 28). A wedding party. Mary, mother of Jesus, evidently a family friend. Christ and His five new disciples among the guests. Supplies ran short, perhaps from poverty or from larger number of guests than expected. Painful position of bridegroom, giver of feast. Mary notices, tells Christ, receives answer, "What is that to Me and thee?" He is best judge of right time for help. She knows His loving heart, is sure He will do something; therefore bids servants obey Christ's orders.
II. The Supply (6-11). Waterpots ready, but empty. Been used for washing before meals (St. Mark vii. 3). Christ orders them to be filled—twenty gallons each. Governor of feast tastes first. Finds it excellent wine—such as usually put on table at beginning of feast—commends bridegroom for it. What was the result?
Satisfaction to Mary, who knew her Divine Son.
Faith strengthened in the new disciples of Christ.
Glory to Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of God.
III. Lessons. 1. About wine. God's gift (Ps. civ. 15), to be used sparingly—a little (1 Tim. v. 23).
2. About Christ. How was His glory manifested? By sympathy—sharing home-life—its joys and sorrows. Believing wants of His people.