The familiar "I am the vine, you are the branches" image seems odd coming immediately after the "Rise, let us be on our way" that ends the previous chapter. Both my NRSV and Burridge say that some scholars believe that Chapter 18 followed 14 and that 15-17 are a later insertion. However, Burridge continues,
even if 14:31 originally led into 18:1, the gospel as we have it today, and in every ancient copy, includes these chapters here. Others suggest that they set out at 14:31 and these three chapters are delivered by Jesus on the way to Gethsemane. Since these chapters develop many of the key themes, it is better to see Jesus' comment as giving some urgency to the Discourse. After all, it is not unusual at dinner parties to say, 'we really must be going', several times before actually departing, such is the interesting conversation! (p. 180)This is one of those times when I find Burridge a bit off the mark. By this point, even the densest of the Disciples must sense that something is not quite as it should be. The conversation has become a bit strained, and Jesus is trying to make sure the Disciples get his message before he is taken from them.
On the other hand, Jesus is repeating himself for the umpteenth time, and it's tempting to just tune him out. Or have another glass of wine. Or leave.
And yet...
Peace,
Jeffri
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