While Jesus is teaching, the scribes and Pharisees drag a woman who was caught in the very act of adultery and drop her in the midst of the gawking crowd—and in front of Jesus. John 8:3 EFP
Perhaps one reason Jesus spends the night in prayer is because he sees this moment taking place. He is now doing what his Father has sent him to do. He is preaching the good news of the Kingdom of God. He is seeking and saving the lost sheep of Israel. This is his joy.
But the enemy is also at work. The scribes and Pharisees there that day are also doing what their father compels them to do. He wants to discredit, diminish, and ultimately destroy Jesus. He will go to any length to do this. But there is more to this statement than the obvious. It becomes clear the enemy and those who listen to his commands are in the business of accusing. Satan is the accuser of the brethren (Revelation 12:10).
This truth must be crystal clear in my preaching. God is not the accuser! His is the one who loves us beyond measure. His record-keeping is not for the purpose of condemning us, rather to document our choice to refuse his grace. He does not want anyone to perish (2 Peter 3:9). He wants me to live. Nothing else could explain His patience and longsuffering on my behalf! The scene developing in this passage will leave no doubt about the character of God. And just as is the case on that morning in the temple—everyone is watching and waiting to see what is going to happen.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Thursday, February 26, 2015
John 8:2
Early the next day Jesus returns to the temple. All the people present come to hear him so he sits down to teach them. John 8:2 EFP
Now we know why Jesus went to the Mount of Olives the previous night. He needs his alone time with his father to prepare him for his work during the day. Can you imagine how he spent the night in the garden? Did he fall asleep there after spending the lion’s share of the night talking to his Father in heaven? I can almost see Jesus leaving the garden and showing up early in the morning to continue his ministry.
I am intrigued by the use of the phrase “all of the people.” I do not think this is mere hyperbole. The fact is no one could stay away. Whether you subscribe to his teaching or you are diametrically opposed to everything he stands for, you are there. He is not only interesting and captivating, he also challenges his listeners to reconsider their way of thinking. There is a choice to be made at the end of every message. You have to make a choice to consider, accept, ignore, or even bury it, but there is a choice.
There is a message there for me as a preacher. A choice needs to be made at the end of every message. As I prepare the message I make a decision to preach what I have been led to believe as truth through the leading of the Holy Spirit. It is only fitting those who hear the message should equally make a choice. There is no neutrality in the presence of truth.
Now we know why Jesus went to the Mount of Olives the previous night. He needs his alone time with his father to prepare him for his work during the day. Can you imagine how he spent the night in the garden? Did he fall asleep there after spending the lion’s share of the night talking to his Father in heaven? I can almost see Jesus leaving the garden and showing up early in the morning to continue his ministry.
I am intrigued by the use of the phrase “all of the people.” I do not think this is mere hyperbole. The fact is no one could stay away. Whether you subscribe to his teaching or you are diametrically opposed to everything he stands for, you are there. He is not only interesting and captivating, he also challenges his listeners to reconsider their way of thinking. There is a choice to be made at the end of every message. You have to make a choice to consider, accept, ignore, or even bury it, but there is a choice.
There is a message there for me as a preacher. A choice needs to be made at the end of every message. As I prepare the message I make a decision to preach what I have been led to believe as truth through the leading of the Holy Spirit. It is only fitting those who hear the message should equally make a choice. There is no neutrality in the presence of truth.
John 8:1
Jesus, on the other hand, heads for the Mount of Olives. John 8:1 EFP
From the outside looking in things seem to end well on that day. A more serious crisis is averted. Cooler heads prevail. The enemy is held at bay and no further damage is done. As the previous verse states, “Everyone goes home.” That is, everyone except Jesus. Jesus knows what he needs to do.
A cool and shady spot under an olive tree back home sounds pretty good. Some home-cooked food must have been a tempting scenario. But Jesus puts off the inviting for the essential. Jesus is in a different place than all the people he deals with. He is on a mission. The future of humanity is on the line. He has a cross waiting for him. He cannot face the future alone. So he goes to his special place where he can commune with his Father in heaven. This is what he needs more than anything—before anything else.
The thought is more than a bit indicting. I do not have to dig very deeply to be reminded how often I set aside the essential for the inviting instead of the other way around. When things are seen clearly I know what I need to do, but so often my vision is clouded by the pressing and urgent. Nothing is more pressing than my time with God. Thank you, Lord, for waiting patiently for me.
From the outside looking in things seem to end well on that day. A more serious crisis is averted. Cooler heads prevail. The enemy is held at bay and no further damage is done. As the previous verse states, “Everyone goes home.” That is, everyone except Jesus. Jesus knows what he needs to do.
A cool and shady spot under an olive tree back home sounds pretty good. Some home-cooked food must have been a tempting scenario. But Jesus puts off the inviting for the essential. Jesus is in a different place than all the people he deals with. He is on a mission. The future of humanity is on the line. He has a cross waiting for him. He cannot face the future alone. So he goes to his special place where he can commune with his Father in heaven. This is what he needs more than anything—before anything else.
The thought is more than a bit indicting. I do not have to dig very deeply to be reminded how often I set aside the essential for the inviting instead of the other way around. When things are seen clearly I know what I need to do, but so often my vision is clouded by the pressing and urgent. Nothing is more pressing than my time with God. Thank you, Lord, for waiting patiently for me.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
John 7:53
Then everyone goes home. John 7:53 EFP
Everyone goes home. Why? Why don’t the authorities insist the guards go back and seize Jesus? Why do they not press their argument any further with Nicodemus? Why does Nicodemus not respond? Did level heads prevail? Were they all just too tired to fight any longer?
Are there some days when the better part of valor is simply to go home? Does every encounter have to be a battle? Sometimes I just want to go home. No victory. No defeat. A bit battered. Tired. I just need to go to a safe place to regroup. There is a lesson in there somewhere to the side of me who feels a sense of obligation to win all the time. Lord, give me the wisdom to know when to walk away. Let me choose carefully the hill on which I will die.
I am in a war. It’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon event. The victory goes to the one who endures—the one who survives.
Everyone goes home. Why? Why don’t the authorities insist the guards go back and seize Jesus? Why do they not press their argument any further with Nicodemus? Why does Nicodemus not respond? Did level heads prevail? Were they all just too tired to fight any longer?
Are there some days when the better part of valor is simply to go home? Does every encounter have to be a battle? Sometimes I just want to go home. No victory. No defeat. A bit battered. Tired. I just need to go to a safe place to regroup. There is a lesson in there somewhere to the side of me who feels a sense of obligation to win all the time. Lord, give me the wisdom to know when to walk away. Let me choose carefully the hill on which I will die.
I am in a war. It’s not a sprint; it’s a marathon event. The victory goes to the one who endures—the one who survives.
Monday, February 23, 2015
John 7:52
Nicodemus’ colleagues do not take his words sitting down. “What goes, Nicodemus?” They bite back. “Are you a closet Galilean? Look it up, man! There is no such thing as a Galilean prophet!” John 7:52 EFP
The line of demarcation is drawn. Nicodemus is on the wrong side of this temple tussle. I am not sure if his colleagues are surprised or chagrined, but they do not mince words. First they goad him, at best, by calling him a Galilean. That is not a compliment. Secondly, they question his intelligence or, at best, his understanding of Scripture. If he truly knew the Law and the Prophets he would know that no prophet is identified with Galilee. Half mocking, half derision.
That antagonism is coming from the spiritual ones. This is not an attack from non-believers or people set against religion of any type. These are the “good guys.” This makes the attack so nefarious. What happened to these men that transformed them into narrow-minded, myopic, and hard-hearted? Am I in danger of falling prey to this mindset? Can I cling to a position so strongly I prevent any new concept from ever penetrating the hard shell that protects me? How do I know what to cling to and what to let go?
Paul says, “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” (I Thessalonians 5:21) That’s a start.
The line of demarcation is drawn. Nicodemus is on the wrong side of this temple tussle. I am not sure if his colleagues are surprised or chagrined, but they do not mince words. First they goad him, at best, by calling him a Galilean. That is not a compliment. Secondly, they question his intelligence or, at best, his understanding of Scripture. If he truly knew the Law and the Prophets he would know that no prophet is identified with Galilee. Half mocking, half derision.
That antagonism is coming from the spiritual ones. This is not an attack from non-believers or people set against religion of any type. These are the “good guys.” This makes the attack so nefarious. What happened to these men that transformed them into narrow-minded, myopic, and hard-hearted? Am I in danger of falling prey to this mindset? Can I cling to a position so strongly I prevent any new concept from ever penetrating the hard shell that protects me? How do I know what to cling to and what to let go?
Paul says, “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” (I Thessalonians 5:21) That’s a start.
John 7:51
Nicodemus’ words are short and succinct. “Since you mention the law,” he interjects, “Does our law pass judgment on any man without first hearing him out or looking into what are the fruits of his labor?” John 7:51 EFP
There you have it! Nicodemus first defense of his new-found faith. Not earth-shattering, huh? He does not make a full frontal attack on Judaism. Neither does he make a public confession of his faith in Jesus Christ as the long-awaited Messiah. All he does is stand up for fairness and justice. You might even say he made a plea for “due process.”
I was feeling more than a bit inadequate yesterday when the narrative sets the stage for Nicodemus’ statement of today. It seems as if Nicodemus cannot stand by silently any longer. He has to say something. I admire his willingness to take a stand regardless of the cost. He follows the Spirit lead and takes a considerable risk by opening his mouth. It doesn’t matter if his first journey into the realm of the unknown is less than monumental. He speaks up. He says something. He takes a step, albeit small. That is what matters!
It matters that I am willing to take a step. God can work with anything—he can work with nothing in fact, as long as I am willing to surrender my “nothing” to him. He builds on that. My weakness. My timidity. My headstrongness. My fear. My doubt. You name it. I have to give it up to him. Open my mouth. I will never know what God can do unless I let him do it.
There you have it! Nicodemus first defense of his new-found faith. Not earth-shattering, huh? He does not make a full frontal attack on Judaism. Neither does he make a public confession of his faith in Jesus Christ as the long-awaited Messiah. All he does is stand up for fairness and justice. You might even say he made a plea for “due process.”
I was feeling more than a bit inadequate yesterday when the narrative sets the stage for Nicodemus’ statement of today. It seems as if Nicodemus cannot stand by silently any longer. He has to say something. I admire his willingness to take a stand regardless of the cost. He follows the Spirit lead and takes a considerable risk by opening his mouth. It doesn’t matter if his first journey into the realm of the unknown is less than monumental. He speaks up. He says something. He takes a step, albeit small. That is what matters!
It matters that I am willing to take a step. God can work with anything—he can work with nothing in fact, as long as I am willing to surrender my “nothing” to him. He builds on that. My weakness. My timidity. My headstrongness. My fear. My doubt. You name it. I have to give it up to him. Open my mouth. I will never know what God can do unless I let him do it.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
John 7:50
At that moment Nicodemus, the man who came to talk to Jesus after dark, spoke up. John 7:50 EFP
It has been some time since Nicodemus name is mentioned—chapter 3, if I recall. Since there is no mention of any response to Jesus’ challenge, he is soon off the gospel radar. That is, until this moment in the midst of a holy diatribe about Jesus by his colleagues.
I do not know if this was his first opportunity since the encounter with Jesus. I do not even know if this is merely the first recorded opportunity for Nicodemus to take a stand for his Lord. All I know for now is that he chooses this moment to speak up.
I believe the Holy Spirit has been moving in the heart of Nicodemus since that fateful night in the garden with Jesus. The pangs to speak up overcome his reluctance to reveal his loyalty for this Galilean itinerant rabbi. He picks quite a moment to speak up. But what is most important is that he does. And just as with him, my faith and belief in Jesus and his testimony mean nothing until I am able to verbalize it and speak up for that faith. May God give me more boldness to speak up for Jesus when He prompts me to do so.
And just as I have no notion yet what he is inspired to say or the results of the words spoken, neither will I know the consequences of my confession until my lips share what God has placed in my heart to say. It is risk worth taking!
It has been some time since Nicodemus name is mentioned—chapter 3, if I recall. Since there is no mention of any response to Jesus’ challenge, he is soon off the gospel radar. That is, until this moment in the midst of a holy diatribe about Jesus by his colleagues.
I do not know if this was his first opportunity since the encounter with Jesus. I do not even know if this is merely the first recorded opportunity for Nicodemus to take a stand for his Lord. All I know for now is that he chooses this moment to speak up.
I believe the Holy Spirit has been moving in the heart of Nicodemus since that fateful night in the garden with Jesus. The pangs to speak up overcome his reluctance to reveal his loyalty for this Galilean itinerant rabbi. He picks quite a moment to speak up. But what is most important is that he does. And just as with him, my faith and belief in Jesus and his testimony mean nothing until I am able to verbalize it and speak up for that faith. May God give me more boldness to speak up for Jesus when He prompts me to do so.
And just as I have no notion yet what he is inspired to say or the results of the words spoken, neither will I know the consequences of my confession until my lips share what God has placed in my heart to say. It is risk worth taking!
John 7:49
“The masses are an ignorant and lawless bunch—,” declare the leaders. “They are cursed through and through!” John 7:49 EFP
I am not sure the religious leaders intend to make the statement they made. Perhaps they do, but only as an insult aimed at anyone who would dare give Jesus any attention or recognition. Ignorant. Lawless. Cursed.
I don’t know about you, but that pretty much describes my condition without God. I am certainly ignorant about what it takes to be truly alive. As a result my life becomes a pursuit of passing pleasures, vanishing dreams, vanity and folly, deluded into thinking these things will lead to fulfillment. I am lawless since God’s law only seems to get in the way of my chasing of the wind. I live for myself. I am my own law, until I fall victim of my own lawless devising. What is the end result? I am cursed, lost, crushed, and languishing in the rubble of my life of pointless pursuits. I am then in the condition that makes me a candidate for citizenship in the Kingdom of Grace.
The Savior is my only hope. I am cursed as a result of my attempt to find joy and fulfillment without God. But the power of God is made complete in my floundering condition. In him I become more than a conqueror! (Romans 8:37)
Thursday, February 19, 2015
John 7:48
“Are you aware of any religious rulers or Pharisees like us believing in Him?” they add. “We think not!” John 7:48 EFP
What a question! Can you imagine the weight this question carries in the minds of the guards who are being peppered with these questions? In the minds of the Pharisees it is inconceivable to consider any religious person worth his salt placing any credence in the teachings of this uneducated itinerant preacher—from Galilee no less!
The truth is there are those among the religious elite who have already placed their faith in Jesus (see John 3 and12). But these particular religious rulers would not even consider the possibility of believing in this man of the common people. Harlots and publicans find him interesting. The marginalized and the unclean constantly seek him out. But not anyone who has any shred of dignity. Not the spiritually select and socially superior.
The good news that Jesus preaches is not good news to people of power and prestige who have no room in their lives for sacrifice and devotion. The gospel seed finds fertile ground in those who sense their need for something that cannot be found in the trappings of life as defined by the standards of this world. Few are those willing to admit they are needy—it’s humbling. But the power of God unto salvation is found in brokenness!
What a question! Can you imagine the weight this question carries in the minds of the guards who are being peppered with these questions? In the minds of the Pharisees it is inconceivable to consider any religious person worth his salt placing any credence in the teachings of this uneducated itinerant preacher—from Galilee no less!
The truth is there are those among the religious elite who have already placed their faith in Jesus (see John 3 and12). But these particular religious rulers would not even consider the possibility of believing in this man of the common people. Harlots and publicans find him interesting. The marginalized and the unclean constantly seek him out. But not anyone who has any shred of dignity. Not the spiritually select and socially superior.
The good news that Jesus preaches is not good news to people of power and prestige who have no room in their lives for sacrifice and devotion. The gospel seed finds fertile ground in those who sense their need for something that cannot be found in the trappings of life as defined by the standards of this world. Few are those willing to admit they are needy—it’s humbling. But the power of God unto salvation is found in brokenness!
John 7:47
The Pharisees are not happy at all with this development. “What is this?” they ask. “Don’t tell us you have become beguiled by this imposter!” John 7:47 EFP
I sense I find myself at a very important juncture of my life. Perhaps my age has caused me to reconsider my ways. I have never doubted God’s love for me, although I have wondered how it is possible!). I have in fact begun to question the tenor of my life and the quality of the fruit my faith has produced. I am being drawn to renew my commitment to live a life that is transparent, genuine, and wholly devoted to God.
As God works this work in my life, I am left wondering what changes will take place. What things will not attract me anymore? What things will I avoid? There are many things that are not innately wrong or forbidden, but that may not be recommended. I am wrestling with the concept of eliminating the avenues Satan uses to beguile me, to distract me, to dull my senses, or even to lull me to sleep. They are everywhere!
Will these changes cause people to look at me oddly or conclude I have lost my mind? Will they accuse me of being a legalist? Will they call me judgmental or prudish? I don’t know what I will look like—in truth, I don’t care, if I look and act more like Jesus. There ought to be a difference, don’t you think? What difference exists or what difference it makes are worthy of consideration—but in the end, who is the one beguiled by an imposter? I can’t answer for anyone else. It’s my path…and my journey continues.
I sense I find myself at a very important juncture of my life. Perhaps my age has caused me to reconsider my ways. I have never doubted God’s love for me, although I have wondered how it is possible!). I have in fact begun to question the tenor of my life and the quality of the fruit my faith has produced. I am being drawn to renew my commitment to live a life that is transparent, genuine, and wholly devoted to God.
As God works this work in my life, I am left wondering what changes will take place. What things will not attract me anymore? What things will I avoid? There are many things that are not innately wrong or forbidden, but that may not be recommended. I am wrestling with the concept of eliminating the avenues Satan uses to beguile me, to distract me, to dull my senses, or even to lull me to sleep. They are everywhere!
Will these changes cause people to look at me oddly or conclude I have lost my mind? Will they accuse me of being a legalist? Will they call me judgmental or prudish? I don’t know what I will look like—in truth, I don’t care, if I look and act more like Jesus. There ought to be a difference, don’t you think? What difference exists or what difference it makes are worthy of consideration—but in the end, who is the one beguiled by an imposter? I can’t answer for anyone else. It’s my path…and my journey continues.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
John 7:46
The guards respond as honestly as they can. “We have never heard any man speak like this Man—ever!” they confess. John 7:46 EFP
These poignant words must have been as difficult for the guards to say as they were for the religious leaders to hear. It is no easy confession on the part of the guards to acknowledge their amazement at the Man, Jesus. His words must have pierced their hearts unlike any other discourse they had ever heard, present company included. These words could have cost them their jobs, even their very lives—but the respond to the query honestly.
The priests and Pharisees do not want to hear those words any more than the soldiers want to say them. It confirmed what they had been noticing from their very first encounter with this radical rabbi from the north. It is an indictment of the emptiness of their own public discourses. Yet, rather than admitting their pettiness and being open to the possibility of a word from God, these words only elicit more hatred towards this apparent threat to their religious rule over the people.
There is power in the “red letters” of the Scripture. What would it be like to live by the principles and teachings of Jesus? I wonder if his words would become as offensive to me as they were to the religious bastions of his time. I am being drawn to reconsider their meaning to me today and every day I live. I am left quietly uneasy. It is the Spirit calling me to confess with the temple guards, “There is no one else who speaks to me like Jesus!”
These poignant words must have been as difficult for the guards to say as they were for the religious leaders to hear. It is no easy confession on the part of the guards to acknowledge their amazement at the Man, Jesus. His words must have pierced their hearts unlike any other discourse they had ever heard, present company included. These words could have cost them their jobs, even their very lives—but the respond to the query honestly.
The priests and Pharisees do not want to hear those words any more than the soldiers want to say them. It confirmed what they had been noticing from their very first encounter with this radical rabbi from the north. It is an indictment of the emptiness of their own public discourses. Yet, rather than admitting their pettiness and being open to the possibility of a word from God, these words only elicit more hatred towards this apparent threat to their religious rule over the people.
There is power in the “red letters” of the Scripture. What would it be like to live by the principles and teachings of Jesus? I wonder if his words would become as offensive to me as they were to the religious bastions of his time. I am being drawn to reconsider their meaning to me today and every day I live. I am left quietly uneasy. It is the Spirit calling me to confess with the temple guards, “There is no one else who speaks to me like Jesus!”
John 7:45
Case in point—the temple officers are beckoned by the head priests and Pharisees who quickly complain, “Why have you not seized him and brought him to us?” John 7:45 EFP
It is difficult to miss the three entities involved in the behind-the-scenes machinations. The temple officers were the enforcers of order on the temple grounds. They were the
“muscle” used by the priests to carry out their dirty work. The priests wielded great religious power and they were not afraid to use it to accomplish their goals. By this time in the history of Israel, the priest had deteriorated into a group of political appointees, rather the spiritual leaders of the nation. That role may have been claimed proudly by the Pharisees, who were considered the guardians of morality and law-keeping.
The latter two have the authority to move the powers that be to seize Jesus. The officers have the physical ability to carry out the mandate given them. The latter do nothing but order others to take hold of Jesus. The officers go with the intent of doing their masters’ wishes, but come back empty-handed. The scene cannot possibly be a pleasant one.
The leaders are reminded of what the guards discover that day—Jesus is not a pushover. He is not a tame lion. He cannot be harnessed or seized without his consent. He is very likely a meek and mild-mannered man who exudes power by his very presence. Jesus—as is the case with His Father, whom he came to reveal, cannot be taken hold of against his will. He would surrender voluntarily in time, but not today.
It is difficult to miss the three entities involved in the behind-the-scenes machinations. The temple officers were the enforcers of order on the temple grounds. They were the
“muscle” used by the priests to carry out their dirty work. The priests wielded great religious power and they were not afraid to use it to accomplish their goals. By this time in the history of Israel, the priest had deteriorated into a group of political appointees, rather the spiritual leaders of the nation. That role may have been claimed proudly by the Pharisees, who were considered the guardians of morality and law-keeping.
The latter two have the authority to move the powers that be to seize Jesus. The officers have the physical ability to carry out the mandate given them. The latter do nothing but order others to take hold of Jesus. The officers go with the intent of doing their masters’ wishes, but come back empty-handed. The scene cannot possibly be a pleasant one.
The leaders are reminded of what the guards discover that day—Jesus is not a pushover. He is not a tame lion. He cannot be harnessed or seized without his consent. He is very likely a meek and mild-mannered man who exudes power by his very presence. Jesus—as is the case with His Father, whom he came to reveal, cannot be taken hold of against his will. He would surrender voluntarily in time, but not today.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
John 7:44
In fact there are people among the crowd who want to seize him and do him harm, but no one dares lay a hand on him. John 7:44 EFP
What is it about Jesus that evokes such strong feelings? Why is he such a polarizing person? Yes, at times his messages are acerbic, particularly when dealing with the religious hierarchy, but they are consistently words of love. His mission was to seek and save this lost planet. He lives a life of service; healing the sick, and feeding the hungry. So why the vitriol?
Consider this: Jesus mission involves entering the enemy’s territory in order to rescue those being held hostage by a tyrant who has placed a death sentence on all of them. The enemy knows Jesus is coming. The enemy knows what he looks like. The enemy does not want to surrender his hostages. The stakes are high. It is a conflict for the ages and everything hinges on the success of the mission. Would you not do anything possible to ensure the failure of the mission?
The sides have only become more polarized today. The clock is ticking. The enemy knows his end is coming and he will not hold anything back (Revelation 18:18). We are in the heat of the battle. We have a choice as to where we stand and fight. You will fight on the side of the one you believe.
What is it about Jesus that evokes such strong feelings? Why is he such a polarizing person? Yes, at times his messages are acerbic, particularly when dealing with the religious hierarchy, but they are consistently words of love. His mission was to seek and save this lost planet. He lives a life of service; healing the sick, and feeding the hungry. So why the vitriol?
Consider this: Jesus mission involves entering the enemy’s territory in order to rescue those being held hostage by a tyrant who has placed a death sentence on all of them. The enemy knows Jesus is coming. The enemy knows what he looks like. The enemy does not want to surrender his hostages. The stakes are high. It is a conflict for the ages and everything hinges on the success of the mission. Would you not do anything possible to ensure the failure of the mission?
The sides have only become more polarized today. The clock is ticking. The enemy knows his end is coming and he will not hold anything back (Revelation 18:18). We are in the heat of the battle. We have a choice as to where we stand and fight. You will fight on the side of the one you believe.
John 7:43
As a result of these deliberations, there is now a marked division among the people on the subject of Jesus. John 7:43 EFP
The more things change, the more they remain the same. Sit in on any religious discussion on the subject of Christ, and there will be a marked distinction between those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and those who, at best, see him as a great moral man and teacher. Sometimes these discussions become disagreements that in turn deteriorate into a religious war of words. It is a short distance from that scenario to a one that costs lives.
The sad truth is that even among those who claim the name of Christ as their own, there is a history of hate and violence in the name of a Loving Savior. Dare I say even within my community of faith there is a battle of sorts between camps that lay claim to the “truth.” I venture to say these may be people who know the Scriptures, but have no intimate knowledge of the Lord to whom the Scriptures point and of whom they give witness.
My faith is validated by my attitude and behavior to those who are not like me. Being right is no replacement for being right with God.
The more things change, the more they remain the same. Sit in on any religious discussion on the subject of Christ, and there will be a marked distinction between those who believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and those who, at best, see him as a great moral man and teacher. Sometimes these discussions become disagreements that in turn deteriorate into a religious war of words. It is a short distance from that scenario to a one that costs lives.
The sad truth is that even among those who claim the name of Christ as their own, there is a history of hate and violence in the name of a Loving Savior. Dare I say even within my community of faith there is a battle of sorts between camps that lay claim to the “truth.” I venture to say these may be people who know the Scriptures, but have no intimate knowledge of the Lord to whom the Scriptures point and of whom they give witness.
My faith is validated by my attitude and behavior to those who are not like me. Being right is no replacement for being right with God.
Friday, February 13, 2015
John 7:42
Some in the crowd continue to deliberate among themselves, “Don’t the ancient scrolls say the Messiah is a direct descendent of King David?” they mutter. “Furthermore, do the Scriptures not also say he would be born in the town of Bethlehem, just like David was?” John 7:42 EFP
The people are right. They know the Scriptures well enough to know the Christ would be born in the little town of Bethlehem. They also know the Messiah would be a descendent of King David. All these things they had heard from their teachers and their parents since they were infants. They have the facts in order. They have the information down pat. They are correct. Yet, they are misguided because they are missing a key ingredient. They do not know Jesus’ story.
Had they known not only the information that speaks of the Messiah they would have known Jesus was actually born in Bethlehem, and that both his parents were direct descendants of King David. Knowing the information is never enough when it comes to matters of faith. I must know Jesus. Personally. Intimately. His mind. His motives. His heart. Only then does the information make sense. Only then do the words of Scripture become the power of God to save me, change me, mold me, and use me. The words of Scripture do not save me—they point me to the One who alone can (John 5:39). They invite me to become acquainted with my Savior; to lose myself in His life and live in His footsteps. I pray God delivers me from placing my confidence in the mere knowledge of Him. I want to know him as best I can until the day I meet Him face to face.
The people are right. They know the Scriptures well enough to know the Christ would be born in the little town of Bethlehem. They also know the Messiah would be a descendent of King David. All these things they had heard from their teachers and their parents since they were infants. They have the facts in order. They have the information down pat. They are correct. Yet, they are misguided because they are missing a key ingredient. They do not know Jesus’ story.
Had they known not only the information that speaks of the Messiah they would have known Jesus was actually born in Bethlehem, and that both his parents were direct descendants of King David. Knowing the information is never enough when it comes to matters of faith. I must know Jesus. Personally. Intimately. His mind. His motives. His heart. Only then does the information make sense. Only then do the words of Scripture become the power of God to save me, change me, mold me, and use me. The words of Scripture do not save me—they point me to the One who alone can (John 5:39). They invite me to become acquainted with my Savior; to lose myself in His life and live in His footsteps. I pray God delivers me from placing my confidence in the mere knowledge of Him. I want to know him as best I can until the day I meet Him face to face.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
John 7:41
Opinions in the crowd run the gamut. Some say, “This is the Anointed One!” Other are not so convinced. “How is it possible that the Messiah would come from Galilee? This is unfathomable!” John 7:41 EFP
As is the case today, the opinion about Jesus run the gamut between blind passion and hateful disdain. But even within Christendom we can find shades of faith. There are those who burn brightly for their Loving Lord while others serve in quiet servitude to their Master. Faith is not monolithic. It is a tapestry of personalities and emotions and experiences as rich and nuanced as the myriad of people touched by the Gospel.
This text is not about those outside the community of believers. It is about those wrestling with total and partial commitment to the Savior. I sense in me a deep desire to believe, but something holds me back. Some claims of Christ and Christianity are hard to grasp. They require a step into the unknown. They can appear unsavory and untenable. But the cost of believing does not compare to the bounty of blessings that began the moment I believed. I am a child of God. I am redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I have a future. I have a purpose. I live to love as I have been loved. I am an ambassador of reconciliation. I have Good News to spread. What holds me back? Nothing! Lead me today, Lord, to the place or person that needs you and what you bring.
As is the case today, the opinion about Jesus run the gamut between blind passion and hateful disdain. But even within Christendom we can find shades of faith. There are those who burn brightly for their Loving Lord while others serve in quiet servitude to their Master. Faith is not monolithic. It is a tapestry of personalities and emotions and experiences as rich and nuanced as the myriad of people touched by the Gospel.
This text is not about those outside the community of believers. It is about those wrestling with total and partial commitment to the Savior. I sense in me a deep desire to believe, but something holds me back. Some claims of Christ and Christianity are hard to grasp. They require a step into the unknown. They can appear unsavory and untenable. But the cost of believing does not compare to the bounty of blessings that began the moment I believed. I am a child of God. I am redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. I have a future. I have a purpose. I live to love as I have been loved. I am an ambassador of reconciliation. I have Good News to spread. What holds me back? Nothing! Lead me today, Lord, to the place or person that needs you and what you bring.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
John 7:40
Many in the crowd are convicted as result of these words spoken by Jesus. “This man is a truly the Prophet!” they say. John 7:40 EFP
The mental picture Jesus painted for his listeners is not lost on all of them. Some actually get it. They see beyond the fog of their prejudices and pre-conceived notions about who the Messiah will be. They see the evidence and reach a point of conviction, the work of the Holy Spirit. (John 16:8)
In other words, these people in the crowd believe. They move beyond interest in this mysterious rabbi. They bypass their fascination with his miraculous power and mighty deeds. They ponder his words and open their hearts and minds to the hidden meaning behind them. “This is certainly the Prophet!” they say. The Prophet. Not just a prophet, which would have been a confession in itself. This is the Prophet prophesied by Moses! He is the Messiah! What a realization this must have been.
What do they do with this information? Do they hold it in out of fear for the consequences? Do they become silent believers? Does the seed land on fertile soil and give rise to the passion manifested on Pentecost? Do these people become part of the 120 people gathered in the upper room spoken of in the Book of Acts? When I come to that point of believing, I am never the same again! I am sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13). That’s exciting.
The mental picture Jesus painted for his listeners is not lost on all of them. Some actually get it. They see beyond the fog of their prejudices and pre-conceived notions about who the Messiah will be. They see the evidence and reach a point of conviction, the work of the Holy Spirit. (John 16:8)
In other words, these people in the crowd believe. They move beyond interest in this mysterious rabbi. They bypass their fascination with his miraculous power and mighty deeds. They ponder his words and open their hearts and minds to the hidden meaning behind them. “This is certainly the Prophet!” they say. The Prophet. Not just a prophet, which would have been a confession in itself. This is the Prophet prophesied by Moses! He is the Messiah! What a realization this must have been.
What do they do with this information? Do they hold it in out of fear for the consequences? Do they become silent believers? Does the seed land on fertile soil and give rise to the passion manifested on Pentecost? Do these people become part of the 120 people gathered in the upper room spoken of in the Book of Acts? When I come to that point of believing, I am never the same again! I am sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13). That’s exciting.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
John 7:39
Jesus is making a veiled reference to the Holy Spirit, who will be poured out on his believers. The Holy Spirit had not yet been poured out—it would not be until Jesus was glorified after his resurrection. John 7:39 EFP
The Holy Spirit. He is such an enigma. Mysterious. Invisible. God. Yet in this verse Jesus describes what will be the experience of all those who choose to place their faith on him. He paints a mental picture of a spring of living water gushing, dare I say uncontrollably?
The Holy Spirit is ever-present, since before creation. But the prophet Joel prophesied the day would come when the Holy Spirit would be poured out as never before (Joel 2:28). As I run ahead to the Book of Acts I find the fulfillment at the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2). The events of that day validate this prophecy. The church explodes with growth, and miracles, and people gushing with the Good News. People are believing and being saved daily!
Where are those days? Are they relegated to the past? Is it simply a powerful story of people who discovered some mystery millennia ago? I want to gush with the power and joy of the Holy Spirit! I want to believe in the fullness of the word. I sense I have been hedging my bet, because I do not see this experience in my life today. I want to know what it is to be “all in”! I want my church to experience this power. It’s a daunting thought.
The Holy Spirit. He is such an enigma. Mysterious. Invisible. God. Yet in this verse Jesus describes what will be the experience of all those who choose to place their faith on him. He paints a mental picture of a spring of living water gushing, dare I say uncontrollably?
The Holy Spirit is ever-present, since before creation. But the prophet Joel prophesied the day would come when the Holy Spirit would be poured out as never before (Joel 2:28). As I run ahead to the Book of Acts I find the fulfillment at the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2). The events of that day validate this prophecy. The church explodes with growth, and miracles, and people gushing with the Good News. People are believing and being saved daily!
Where are those days? Are they relegated to the past? Is it simply a powerful story of people who discovered some mystery millennia ago? I want to gush with the power and joy of the Holy Spirit! I want to believe in the fullness of the word. I sense I have been hedging my bet, because I do not see this experience in my life today. I want to know what it is to be “all in”! I want my church to experience this power. It’s a daunting thought.
Monday, February 9, 2015
John 7:38
“Whoever believes in me as the Scriptures declare, will gush out with living water from the depths of their soul!” John 7:38 EFP
I was left wondering what text Jesus was referring to when he declared that those who
believe in Him “as the Scriptures say” will become springs of living water. Where does the Old Testament (as we refer to the Scriptures of Jesus’ time) say we would believe in Jesus?
The text jumped into my memory. Moses, in his farewell speech to the Israelites prior to his death, makes an astounding pronouncement. It is a prophetic statement that points to this moment. Deuteronomy 18:15 reads, “The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him.” The word “listen” has a very specific meaning to Moses. Read the Moses story in Exodus 4, particularly verses 1 and 9. For him “listen” was linked to “believe.”
The people may have made the connection or not at first, but then he makes a very powerful Mosaic reference when he draws from the mental images the people had of Moses and the rock gushing with water in the barren desert (Exodus 17:6; Numbers 20:10, 11). At that point it would have been difficult for them not to understand the significance of the statement. He was the fulfillment of the Moses prophecy of another prophet who would come. He commanded them to listen and believe! And so it is for me today (Romans 10:17). Listening and believing are still tied together.
I was left wondering what text Jesus was referring to when he declared that those who
believe in Him “as the Scriptures say” will become springs of living water. Where does the Old Testament (as we refer to the Scriptures of Jesus’ time) say we would believe in Jesus?
The text jumped into my memory. Moses, in his farewell speech to the Israelites prior to his death, makes an astounding pronouncement. It is a prophetic statement that points to this moment. Deuteronomy 18:15 reads, “The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must listen to him.” The word “listen” has a very specific meaning to Moses. Read the Moses story in Exodus 4, particularly verses 1 and 9. For him “listen” was linked to “believe.”
The people may have made the connection or not at first, but then he makes a very powerful Mosaic reference when he draws from the mental images the people had of Moses and the rock gushing with water in the barren desert (Exodus 17:6; Numbers 20:10, 11). At that point it would have been difficult for them not to understand the significance of the statement. He was the fulfillment of the Moses prophecy of another prophet who would come. He commanded them to listen and believe! And so it is for me today (Romans 10:17). Listening and believing are still tied together.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
John 7:37
It is the final day of the Great Feast, Jesus suddenly stands up and cries out, “If there is anyone among you who is thirsty, come to me and quench your thirst.” John 7:37 EFP
For the record most commentators agree this is a reference to the Feast of Tabernacles (see verse 2), which took place around September/October in our calendar. It comes after the soul-searching moments of the Day of Atonement. This time is a time of celebration and thanksgiving for God’s provisions and blessings, not the least of which is the cleansing of Yom Kippur. This festival is a biggie—so much so that all Jewish males were mandated to attend.
Imagine the scene. The people are debating the validity of Jesus’ claims. Is he a prophet? Could he be the Messiah? But he’s from Galilee! That is not possible and still be the Messiah! The discussion is heating up, when it seems, all of a sudden Jesus stands up in the middle of the temple courts and apparently shouts out the words recorded above.
It seems random and somewhat impulsive. No previous reference to water or drinking. Jesus simply shouts out an invitation to come and drink. Quench your thirst. Satisfy your parched throats. What must have been the reaction to this unexpected proclamation? Well, for one it shook them out of the state of mind that was focusing on the minutiae. “This is what I am saying, people!” Listen! They had all the trappings of Messianic people but were overlooking the Messiah. This is his Festal declaration. It only gets better.
For the record most commentators agree this is a reference to the Feast of Tabernacles (see verse 2), which took place around September/October in our calendar. It comes after the soul-searching moments of the Day of Atonement. This time is a time of celebration and thanksgiving for God’s provisions and blessings, not the least of which is the cleansing of Yom Kippur. This festival is a biggie—so much so that all Jewish males were mandated to attend.
Imagine the scene. The people are debating the validity of Jesus’ claims. Is he a prophet? Could he be the Messiah? But he’s from Galilee! That is not possible and still be the Messiah! The discussion is heating up, when it seems, all of a sudden Jesus stands up in the middle of the temple courts and apparently shouts out the words recorded above.
It seems random and somewhat impulsive. No previous reference to water or drinking. Jesus simply shouts out an invitation to come and drink. Quench your thirst. Satisfy your parched throats. What must have been the reaction to this unexpected proclamation? Well, for one it shook them out of the state of mind that was focusing on the minutiae. “This is what I am saying, people!” Listen! They had all the trappings of Messianic people but were overlooking the Messiah. This is his Festal declaration. It only gets better.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
John 7:36
“What is he talking about?” The people query, “Did he say, ‘You will not be able to locate me even if you try, and you can’t go where I am going? John 7:36 EFP
Give the people credit—they remember verbatim what Jesus said. That is the extent of their knowledge. They are baffled as to what Jesus means! They remember his words but they do not know what he is trying to convey. Does that sound familiar?
I often wonder why it is that sometimes Jesus’ words seem so foreign to me and other times they bowl me over like a massive wave of enlightenment. Why the difference? Is it the attitude I bring? Is it the spirit in which I become open to the meaning and not just the wording of a passage? Is it possible for me to read the words and overlook the intended message?
What the people that day are missing is what Jesus wants to give me today. For one, He promises the Holy Spirit to guide me into all truth. But just as importantly Jesus invites me to sit and sup with Him (Revelation 3:20). In other words he wants me to sit down and chat—to get to know him, as a friend and Savior. It difficult to understand someone you do not know. I venture to say that the better I become acquainted with Jesus, the clearer his words become to me. In a day when expediency and fast service is supreme, Jesus calls me to slow down and “kick my shoes off.” Life is busy, but Jesus bids me to enter into His rest (Matthew 11:28). Boy, could I use some heavenly rest about now!
Give the people credit—they remember verbatim what Jesus said. That is the extent of their knowledge. They are baffled as to what Jesus means! They remember his words but they do not know what he is trying to convey. Does that sound familiar?
I often wonder why it is that sometimes Jesus’ words seem so foreign to me and other times they bowl me over like a massive wave of enlightenment. Why the difference? Is it the attitude I bring? Is it the spirit in which I become open to the meaning and not just the wording of a passage? Is it possible for me to read the words and overlook the intended message?
What the people that day are missing is what Jesus wants to give me today. For one, He promises the Holy Spirit to guide me into all truth. But just as importantly Jesus invites me to sit and sup with Him (Revelation 3:20). In other words he wants me to sit down and chat—to get to know him, as a friend and Savior. It difficult to understand someone you do not know. I venture to say that the better I become acquainted with Jesus, the clearer his words become to me. In a day when expediency and fast service is supreme, Jesus calls me to slow down and “kick my shoes off.” Life is busy, but Jesus bids me to enter into His rest (Matthew 11:28). Boy, could I use some heavenly rest about now!
Friday, February 6, 2015
John 7:35
These words baffle the crowd. “Where can he go that we cannot find him?” they comment amongst themselves. “Do you believe he plans to leave Judea, live amongst and actually teach the Greeks?” John 7:35 EFP
Here we go again. The people have no clue. Jesus makes a spiritual statement and they interpret it literally. Perhaps they are initially thinking, “Well, we found him today. Why will we not be able to find him again?” Little did they know how implausible and impossible it would be for them to actually find him after his death on the cross. The statement is most likely delivered in a mocking tone.
But even now their bigotry and narrow-mindedness permeates their conversation. The only place where they could not find him would be the place to which they refuse to go – the land of the Gentiles, here referred to as the Greeks. No self-respecting Jew would ever speak of going to the land of the Greeks. They were infidels. They were evil-doers. The beauty of this statement saturated with sarcasm is that is closer to reality than they realize. The Kingdom Jesus had come to establish would soon spill over the Jewish borders and envelope the Greeks, the Romans, and the entire Gentile world. Jesus, through his disciples, will literally leave Palestine and live among the Greeks—and believe it or not, actually teach them about the Kingdom of God. Inconceivable! Jesus actually did what these people considered below them. Jesus came to seek and save the ones considered untouchable by the sanctimonious of all the ages. That’s how he found me.
Here we go again. The people have no clue. Jesus makes a spiritual statement and they interpret it literally. Perhaps they are initially thinking, “Well, we found him today. Why will we not be able to find him again?” Little did they know how implausible and impossible it would be for them to actually find him after his death on the cross. The statement is most likely delivered in a mocking tone.
But even now their bigotry and narrow-mindedness permeates their conversation. The only place where they could not find him would be the place to which they refuse to go – the land of the Gentiles, here referred to as the Greeks. No self-respecting Jew would ever speak of going to the land of the Greeks. They were infidels. They were evil-doers. The beauty of this statement saturated with sarcasm is that is closer to reality than they realize. The Kingdom Jesus had come to establish would soon spill over the Jewish borders and envelope the Greeks, the Romans, and the entire Gentile world. Jesus, through his disciples, will literally leave Palestine and live among the Greeks—and believe it or not, actually teach them about the Kingdom of God. Inconceivable! Jesus actually did what these people considered below them. Jesus came to seek and save the ones considered untouchable by the sanctimonious of all the ages. That’s how he found me.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
John 7:34
“In fact,” Jesus adds, “you will attempt to locate me after I am gone, but you will not be able to find me—you can’t even go where I am.” John 7:34 EFP
This somewhat cryptic statement is an apparent reference to his ascension. Jesus is looking beyond his tenure on this orb, when his mission is completed. The time will come soon enough when these very religious leaders will do everything possible, first of all to prevent his “disappearance” from the grave, and then after failing to locate him after his resurrection, to mount a major cover-up of the events transpired that Sunday morning in Jerusalem.
The irony is that these very individuals have the opportunity that many a believer across the centuries would have wanted to experience—to listen and speak to the Messiah, the Savior of the world. They have the Desire of all the Ages in their sights for over three years, but they fail to seize the opportunity to learn and grow. To a certain degree this is no different then what we do. I may not have face to face encounters with him, but certainly many people in those didn’t either. I have many more mental pictures, albeit in written form, than most every one of his contemporaries. Yet there is so much ignorance, even apathy, towards the Christ. And just as it was in those days in dusty Palestine, the days are numbered. I will not always have the opportunity to become acquainted with the Master. In fact, the time will come when many will seek for truth and not find it though they seek it high and low (Amos 8:11, 12). I need to take advantage of every opportunity to know Jesus better…today.
This somewhat cryptic statement is an apparent reference to his ascension. Jesus is looking beyond his tenure on this orb, when his mission is completed. The time will come soon enough when these very religious leaders will do everything possible, first of all to prevent his “disappearance” from the grave, and then after failing to locate him after his resurrection, to mount a major cover-up of the events transpired that Sunday morning in Jerusalem.
The irony is that these very individuals have the opportunity that many a believer across the centuries would have wanted to experience—to listen and speak to the Messiah, the Savior of the world. They have the Desire of all the Ages in their sights for over three years, but they fail to seize the opportunity to learn and grow. To a certain degree this is no different then what we do. I may not have face to face encounters with him, but certainly many people in those didn’t either. I have many more mental pictures, albeit in written form, than most every one of his contemporaries. Yet there is so much ignorance, even apathy, towards the Christ. And just as it was in those days in dusty Palestine, the days are numbered. I will not always have the opportunity to become acquainted with the Master. In fact, the time will come when many will seek for truth and not find it though they seek it high and low (Amos 8:11, 12). I need to take advantage of every opportunity to know Jesus better…today.
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
John 7:33
Jesus continues his discourse. “Listen,” he says. “My time with you is limited. I won’t be with you that much longer before I must return to the one who sent me to you.” John 7:33 EFP
A couple of things become apparent to me in this text. First of all, Jesus, who must have noticed the dynamics unfolding before him, including the move by the temple rulers to arrest him, is not easily fazed. He continues his speech as if nothing is happening. He is secure enough in his own skin and his surroundings. He knows his mission and the one who set it in motion. This goes to my second point.
Jesus knows his “time is not yet come,” but he knows that it is coming soon. There is a sense of urgency to his messages. Today is another step in the direction of the cross that awaits him. He may not know all the details, but he lives ever aware of his ultimate destiny. What is that like? To know you are destined to die for your convictions—not the mere possibility, but the certainty. What is it like to feel the hate and hostility of the very people you have come to save?
There is a point of contact between Jesus’ experience that day and my experience as I live in his footsteps. If truth is what God calls me to share the principles of His kingdom, that truth may indeed threaten others who have a vested interest in their point of view or their way of life. But truth is not threatened by scrutiny or even attack. Truth is always truth, and if it is from God, it will ultimately triumph. I want the confidence of Jesus to speak the truth in love, regardless of the personal cost. My time is also limited—where is my personal sense of urgency.
A couple of things become apparent to me in this text. First of all, Jesus, who must have noticed the dynamics unfolding before him, including the move by the temple rulers to arrest him, is not easily fazed. He continues his speech as if nothing is happening. He is secure enough in his own skin and his surroundings. He knows his mission and the one who set it in motion. This goes to my second point.
Jesus knows his “time is not yet come,” but he knows that it is coming soon. There is a sense of urgency to his messages. Today is another step in the direction of the cross that awaits him. He may not know all the details, but he lives ever aware of his ultimate destiny. What is that like? To know you are destined to die for your convictions—not the mere possibility, but the certainty. What is it like to feel the hate and hostility of the very people you have come to save?
There is a point of contact between Jesus’ experience that day and my experience as I live in his footsteps. If truth is what God calls me to share the principles of His kingdom, that truth may indeed threaten others who have a vested interest in their point of view or their way of life. But truth is not threatened by scrutiny or even attack. Truth is always truth, and if it is from God, it will ultimately triumph. I want the confidence of Jesus to speak the truth in love, regardless of the personal cost. My time is also limited—where is my personal sense of urgency.
John 7:32
The Pharisees pick up on the wave of hostility towards Jesus amongst the throng of people. They consult with the chief priests and agree to send a group of temple guards to take Jesus into custody. John 7:32 EFP
Ever attentive to the crowd dynamics, particularly when it seems to line up with their own hostile feelings towards Jesus, the religious hierarchy decide to seize the moment and apprehend Jesus and take him to the hoosegow. The passage is not really clear whether they are reacting to the negative or the positive crowd vibes, but it makes sense for them try to capitalize on the prevalent hostility of the general mob rather than the positive feelings that are present in the minority.
But why arrest Jesus? What is his crime? What threat is he to the religious power structure? Apparently he is a considerable threat. There is no way they should allow anyone to make the blasphemous claims as Jesus is doing. They could not allow for the ripples of faith among the crowd to grow into a wave. That would be catastrophic to their religious rule over the people. This is a risk they cannot afford to take. They resort to force to remove the perceived threat.
The contrast is made between the Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness. Jesus’ ministry uses love to draw followers and transform them into disciples. The opposition resorts to the threat of force to protect its interests. I want to represent the Kingdom that does not make decisions based protecting my personal interests, rather on the basis of a search for truth and the influence of love. God help me be faithful.
Ever attentive to the crowd dynamics, particularly when it seems to line up with their own hostile feelings towards Jesus, the religious hierarchy decide to seize the moment and apprehend Jesus and take him to the hoosegow. The passage is not really clear whether they are reacting to the negative or the positive crowd vibes, but it makes sense for them try to capitalize on the prevalent hostility of the general mob rather than the positive feelings that are present in the minority.
But why arrest Jesus? What is his crime? What threat is he to the religious power structure? Apparently he is a considerable threat. There is no way they should allow anyone to make the blasphemous claims as Jesus is doing. They could not allow for the ripples of faith among the crowd to grow into a wave. That would be catastrophic to their religious rule over the people. This is a risk they cannot afford to take. They resort to force to remove the perceived threat.
The contrast is made between the Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness. Jesus’ ministry uses love to draw followers and transform them into disciples. The opposition resorts to the threat of force to protect its interests. I want to represent the Kingdom that does not make decisions based protecting my personal interests, rather on the basis of a search for truth and the influence of love. God help me be faithful.
John 7:31
In spite of the fact that the crowd turn on Jesus, many among them put their faith in Him. They ponder, “When the Messiah comes, will he be able to do greater miracles than this man? Perhaps he is the one.” John 7:31 EFP
This verse gives me reason for hope and pause at the same time. I am encouraged by the fact that in the midst of the mob suddenly turned mad there is a kindling of faith. They wrestle within their minds with the evidence and wonder out loud if this could be the Long-expected One—the Messiah. In the midst of religious blindness and prejudice, they demonstrate an openness to the claims of this mysterious rabbi. The text says they put their faith in Jesus.
But I also note the basis for their faith in him—the “miraculous signs” he has performed. So far, John’s narrative notes the people saw Jesus perform “miraculous signs.” (2:23; 6:2), but in the end these miracles fail to evoke true faith in these witnesses. Note the words of John 12:37—“Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs, they would still not believe in him.” How sad. Yet there is a fickle nature inherent in those who base their belief on the miraculous. Perhaps it is the dependence on the miraculous to sustain the faith. In the end this miracle-worker is unwilling to perform the miracle of his escape from death. Yet this is his greatest wonder of all! For this he came into the world (John 8:37).
What is the foundation of my faith in Jesus? What moves me to believe? Where is my faith in him anchored? Do I believe, as Peter, that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of the living God?” What will I do with that confession when it becomes mine? I feel so puny in the presence of such a grand confession. Lord, help me.
This verse gives me reason for hope and pause at the same time. I am encouraged by the fact that in the midst of the mob suddenly turned mad there is a kindling of faith. They wrestle within their minds with the evidence and wonder out loud if this could be the Long-expected One—the Messiah. In the midst of religious blindness and prejudice, they demonstrate an openness to the claims of this mysterious rabbi. The text says they put their faith in Jesus.
But I also note the basis for their faith in him—the “miraculous signs” he has performed. So far, John’s narrative notes the people saw Jesus perform “miraculous signs.” (2:23; 6:2), but in the end these miracles fail to evoke true faith in these witnesses. Note the words of John 12:37—“Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs, they would still not believe in him.” How sad. Yet there is a fickle nature inherent in those who base their belief on the miraculous. Perhaps it is the dependence on the miraculous to sustain the faith. In the end this miracle-worker is unwilling to perform the miracle of his escape from death. Yet this is his greatest wonder of all! For this he came into the world (John 8:37).
What is the foundation of my faith in Jesus? What moves me to believe? Where is my faith in him anchored? Do I believe, as Peter, that Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of the living God?” What will I do with that confession when it becomes mine? I feel so puny in the presence of such a grand confession. Lord, help me.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
John 7:30
This is more than the people can take! They try to lay hands on him to do him harm, but as it is, they are unsuccessful. No one is able to lay a finger on him—it is not his time yet. John 7:30 EFP
This passage reveals the fickle nature of people. One moment they are deliberating the claims of Jesus as the promised Messiah; the next they are actively trying to seize him and do him harm. What set them off? Was it Jesus calling them out as not knowing God? Could it have been Jesus repeatedly telling them he came from God, when they saw him as the rabbi from Nazareth?
I believe the tipping point is a couple of words—a very specific pair of words that do not carry the significance to us as they did in those days to those people. Jesus literally says, “I know him because from him I am and He me sent.” It does not seem to be very objectionable, but for those two words—“I am.” Those two words would get him in trouble many times during his preaching ministry. But it is no coincidence Jesus uses that moniker. He lays claim to the title “I AM,” for the Jews a title reserved for YHWH, the almighty God. He is the I AM of the Scriptures. He is God. This is either the most outrageous statement ever made by a human being or it is true. My believing it to be true is the door I must enter if I am to be a believer and follower of the “Word made flesh.” Believe.
Believing was easy when I was a child. The older I get, even surrounded by the trappings of faith, I often must grapple with the forces of doubt. Believing is becoming more and more passé, a relic of days gone by. Science and reason now stand front and center in the culture that surrounds me. From the other extreme come the often violent and toxic cries of religious fanaticism and extremism. The do equal damage to the cause of the faith that comes from God in Christ. As a result, faith is proactively marginalized and mocked. In this world—the trend is one that belittles, explains away, and seeks to exile my faith and exchange my need for God with the tangible and alluring rewards of power, money, and influence
Faith is the word calling me as a voice in the wilderness. Lord, help me understand how and what it means to believe! I want to believe in you, but I doubt my ability to. Help my unbelief.
This passage reveals the fickle nature of people. One moment they are deliberating the claims of Jesus as the promised Messiah; the next they are actively trying to seize him and do him harm. What set them off? Was it Jesus calling them out as not knowing God? Could it have been Jesus repeatedly telling them he came from God, when they saw him as the rabbi from Nazareth?
I believe the tipping point is a couple of words—a very specific pair of words that do not carry the significance to us as they did in those days to those people. Jesus literally says, “I know him because from him I am and He me sent.” It does not seem to be very objectionable, but for those two words—“I am.” Those two words would get him in trouble many times during his preaching ministry. But it is no coincidence Jesus uses that moniker. He lays claim to the title “I AM,” for the Jews a title reserved for YHWH, the almighty God. He is the I AM of the Scriptures. He is God. This is either the most outrageous statement ever made by a human being or it is true. My believing it to be true is the door I must enter if I am to be a believer and follower of the “Word made flesh.” Believe.
Believing was easy when I was a child. The older I get, even surrounded by the trappings of faith, I often must grapple with the forces of doubt. Believing is becoming more and more passé, a relic of days gone by. Science and reason now stand front and center in the culture that surrounds me. From the other extreme come the often violent and toxic cries of religious fanaticism and extremism. The do equal damage to the cause of the faith that comes from God in Christ. As a result, faith is proactively marginalized and mocked. In this world—the trend is one that belittles, explains away, and seeks to exile my faith and exchange my need for God with the tangible and alluring rewards of power, money, and influence
Faith is the word calling me as a voice in the wilderness. Lord, help me understand how and what it means to believe! I want to believe in you, but I doubt my ability to. Help my unbelief.
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