(a) Give an account of the first sign in Cana and indicate its effect on the disciples. (b) What two lessons can we learn from the story?

Answer Details

(a) The first sign at Cana and its effect on the disciples (John 2:1-11)

On the third day there was a wedding at Cana of Galilee. The mother of Jesus was there, and Jesus and His disciples were also invited. During the feast the wine ran out, and Mary said to Jesus, "They have no wine." Jesus replied, "Woman, what does your concern have to do with Me? My hour has not yet come." Nevertheless His mother told the servants, "Whatever He says to you, do it."

Nearby stood six stone waterpots used for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, "Fill the waterpots with water," and they filled them to the brim. Then He said, "Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast." When the master of the feast tasted the water that had become wine, not knowing its source, he called the bridegroom and said, "Every man serves the good wine first... but you have kept the good wine until now," for this wine was better than the first.

John concludes, "This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him."

Effect on the disciples: the miracle revealed Jesus' glory and divine power, and as a result His disciples believed in Him, strengthening their faith at the start of His ministry.

(b) Two lessons from the story

1. Obedience brings blessing: the servants obeyed Jesus' instructions exactly, and the miracle followed; we too should do whatever He says.
2. Jesus cares about our ordinary needs and gives His best: He honoured the wedding and provided abundantly and with the finest quality, teaching that God supplies our needs generously and that Jesus is divine, worthy of our faith.