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Before reading any further in my reflections on the Gospel of John, it is important to pause and read the following caveat that applies to any thoughts I might share on any portion of the Scriptures.
I was reminded last Sunday by John Thatamanil’s sermon what a profound challenge it is to read Genesis 1:26-28 in our current context of global climate crisis.
Pilate entered the headquarters again, summoned Jesus, and asked him,
‘Are you the King of the Jews?’ (John 18:33)
Do you see these great buildings?
Not one stone will be left here upon another;
all will be thrown down. (Mark 13:2)
The verses immediately following I Timothy 2:5 where the author uses the word mesitēs to refer to Jesus, support the perception that the author had in mind the question of how people, particularly people outside Jewish faith, might learn about the nature of God’s saving work in Jesus.
Mediation is an important and valuable skill. What could be more powerful than the ability to stand between separate warring parties seeking a way towards reconciliation?
The Greek word mesitēs translated “mediator” in I Timothy 2:5 does not necessarily imply a go-between who negotiates between separate parties. It can also be translated as “a medium of communication” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon).
The Spirit of God dwells within human beings.
In the game of “dueling texts” I will certainly lose when the topic of slavery is raised.
In A Spacious Place 