(6) And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. (7) Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. (8) And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. (John 2:6-8)
Explain
“after the manner of the purifying of the Jews”
The jews had traditions and even some laws about washing. These waterpots were made of stone which made them more impervious to things that would make it unclean. The people at this feast were doing things the traditional and biblical way, which is more evidence that Jesus was not doing something that would encourage drunkeness.
firkins
The greek word is μετρητής and is equal to about 9 gallons. This would make each stone waterpot roughly 18 to 27 gallons apiece.
“Jesus saith unto them, “, “and they filled them”, “And he saith unto them”, “And they bare it.”
Jesus took charge of the situation in telling the servants what to do, and in the course of the story, the servants were obedient to what he said in keeping with the encouragement of Mary.
Application
While this section of scripture serves as the description of what happens, something can be said about propriety. There is a right and wrong way to conduct ourselves, and a wedding, while celebratory in nature, ought to be taken seriously in the scope of what it means and what is being accomplished. There really is a season for everything, and certain behaviors and etiquette that goes with each season of life.
Also something can be said for Jesus’ authority. Here he is exerting authority over these men, over his mother, and over the natural processes itself.
Response
- Basic obedience to Jesus. How’s it going?
- Appropriateness- Do you have discernment to know when to say and behave in the right ways at the right time?