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!