1 After this Jesus went about in Galilee.
2 Now the Jews’ Feast of Booths was at hand.
3 So his brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea, that your disciples also may see the works you are doing.
4 For no one works in secret if he seeks to be known openly. If you do these things, show yourself to the world.
5 For not even his brothers believed in him.
6 Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always here.”
7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil.
8 You go up to the feast. I am not going up to this feast, for my time has not yet fully come.”
9 After saying this, he remained in Galilee.
10 But after his brothers had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private.
11 The Jews were looking for him at the feast, and saying, “Where is he?”
12 And there was much muttering about him among the people. While some said, “He is a good man,” others said, “No, he is leading the people astray.”
13 Yet for fear of the Jews no one spoke openly of him.
14 About the middle of the feast Jesus went up into the temple and began teaching.
15 The Jews therefore marveled, saying, “How is it that this man has learning, when he has never studied?”
16 So Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me.
17 If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority.
18 The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood.
19 Has not Moses given you the law? Yet none of you keeps the law. Why do you seek to kill me?”
20 The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who is seeking to kill you?”
21 Jesus answered them, “I did one work, and you all marvel at it.
22 Moses gave you circumcision (not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and you circumcise a man on the Sabbath.
23 If on the Sabbath a man receives circumcision, so that the law of Moses may not be broken, are you angry with me because on the Sabbath I made a man’s whole body well?
24 Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.
25 Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill?
26 And here he is speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ?
27 But we know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.”
28 So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, “You know me, and you know where I come from? But I have not come of my own accord. He who sent me is true, and him you do not know.
29 I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me.
30 So they were seeking to arrest him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come.
31 But of the people many believed in him. They said, “When the Christ appears, will he do more signs than this man has done?”
32 The Pharisees heard the crowd muttering these things about him, and the chief priests and Pharisees sent officers to arrest him.
33 Jesus then said, “I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me.
34 You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.”
35 The Jews said to one another, “Where does this man intend to go that we will not find him? Does he intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks and teach the Greeks?
36 What does he mean by saying, ‘You will seek me and you will not find me,’ and, ‘Where I am you cannot come’?”
37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.
38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’
39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
40 When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.”
41 Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee?
42 Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the offspring of David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?”
43 So there was a division among the people over him.
44 Some of them wanted to arrest him, but no one laid hands on him.
45 The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?”
46 The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!”
47 The Pharisees answered them, “Have you also been deceived?
48 Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in him?
49 But this crowd that does not know the law is accursed.”
50 Nicodemus, who had gone to him before, and who was one of them, said to them,
51 “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?”
52 They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.”
53 They went each to his own house,
The True Meaning of John 7
This passage from the Gospel of John provides a glimpse into the growing tensions surrounding Jesus and his ministry. The author, John, was one of the twelve disciples who followed Jesus closely and witnessed firsthand the events that unfolded. Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem in this chapter, a significant religious celebration for the Jewish people. However, his presence there sparks controversy and debate among the crowds, as some recognize him as the Messiah while others remain skeptical or even hostile towards him. The chapter foreshadows the growing opposition Jesus will face from the religious authorities, who seek to undermine his teachings and ultimately plot to have him arrested.
Throughout the passage, we see Jesus engaging in thought-provoking dialogues, challenging the assumptions and traditions of the religious establishment. His bold proclamations about his divine origin and authority further stir up the crowds, leading to heated discussions and even attempts to seize him. This chapter sets the stage for the pivotal events that will unfold in the coming chapters, as Jesus continues his mission to reveal the truth and bring salvation to the world.
John 7:1-9
Several significant sections can be extracted for a thorough analysis in John 7:1-9. The passage starts by describing Jesus’ reluctance to travel to Judea because the Jews sought to kill him. This highlights the tension and danger that Jesus faced from the religious authorities who were threatened by his teachings and authority. Despite the open hostility towards him, Jesus demonstrated wisdom by choosing not to expose himself openly in Judea.
The Feast of Tabernacles is then introduced, a Jewish festival that commemorates the Israelites’ wandering in the desert after the exodus from Egypt. It was one of the major feasts that required Jewish males to travel to Jerusalem, explaining why Jesus’ brothers urged him to go and show his works there. They were challenging Jesus to step into the limelight and prove himself publicly.
Jesus’ response to his brothers’ suggestion is crucial, as it underscores his understanding of divine timing and the nature of his mission. He acknowledges that the world cannot hate his brothers because they belong to it, but it hates him because he testifies that its works are evil. Jesus knew that his actions and teachings were a direct challenge to the sinful ways of the world, which resulted in hostility and rejection.
Furthermore, Jesus declines to go to the festival openly, stating that his time had not yet come. This statement reflects Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s will and his perfect alignment with God’s timing. Throughout his ministry, Jesus consistently emphasized the importance of being in sync with God’s plan, even when faced with external pressure or expectations.
The passage ends with Jesus staying in Galilee privately, away from the public eye. This decision showcases Jesus’ strategic approach to his ministry, as he avoided unnecessary confrontation or premature exposure to danger. It also sets the stage for the upcoming events in Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles, where Jesus eventually appears and teaches in the temple, stirring up controversy and division among the people. This passage from John 7 serves as a reminder of the challenges and opposition that believers may encounter when standing for truth and righteousness in a broader context. Jesus’ example of patience, discernment, and submission to God’s will is a timeless lesson for Christians navigating a world that may not always welcome or accept their beliefs. Just as Jesus knew the right moment to reveal himself at the feast, believers are called to trust in God’s timing and purpose, even in the face of adversity. This passage also echoes the theme of division that Jesus’ presence often caused among people, fulfilling the prophecy that he would be a “stone of stumbling and a rock of offense” (1 Peter 2:8) to those who rejected him.
John 7:10-13
Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem in a rather discreet manner, keeping a low profile, as the passage in John 7:10-13 begins. This is noteworthy as the Jewish religious leaders were seeking to apprehend Jesus, suspected of blasphemy and stirring controversy among the people. Despite the danger, Jesus did not shy away from fulfilling His purpose and teaching in public, even though it put Him at risk of being arrested.
This passage reflects the tension that existed between Jesus and the religious authorities of His time. Jesus’ teachings challenged the traditional beliefs and practices of the Jewish leaders, causing division among the people who were intrigued by His wisdom and miracles. The fear of the authorities arresting Jesus highlights the threat He posed to the religious establishment, as He questioned their practices and teachings, emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with God over blind adherence to rules and traditions.
The reaction of the people in verse 12 is interesting as there is a murmuring among the crowd about Jesus. Some admired Him for His teachings and believed Him to be a prophet, while others were skeptical and questioned His credentials. This division among the people mirrors the response Jesus often received throughout His ministry, where some accepted Him as the Messiah while others rejected Him, unable to see beyond the limits of their own understanding.
The mention of the crowds looking for Jesus in verse 11 underlines the curiosity and interest surrounding Jesus during His earthly ministry. People were eager to hear Him speak, witness His miracles, and understand the profound truths He shared. This eagerness to seek Jesus is a timeless message that speaks to the innate human desire to search for spiritual fulfillment and truth, as Jesus remains the ultimate source of wisdom and salvation, drawing people to Him throughout the ages. Isaiah 53:3 foretold that Jesus would be despised and rejected by men, familiar with suffering and grief, echoing this passage to other parts of the Bible. This rejection by some and acceptance by others underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through Jesus’ ministry, as He faced opposition and disbelief while also finding followers who recognized Him as the Son of God. The ongoing theme of persecution and division in Jesus’ life foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice He would make on the cross for the salvation of humanity, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to fulfilling God’s plan despite the challenges He faced.
John 7:14-24
The passage in John 7:14-24 can be broken down into several key sections for a deeper understanding of its message. Let’s delve into each of these sections step by step.
Starting with verse 14, it begins with Jesus entering the temple courts and beginning to teach. It’s essential to note that during the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus was in Jerusalem, a time when many Jews gathered to celebrate. The fact that Jesus chose this occasion to teach indicates His deliberate timing and the significance He placed on spreading His message during important Jewish festivities.
Moving on to verse 15, it highlights the audience’s amazement at Jesus’ teaching. The Jews were astonished at His wisdom because Jesus was not formally trained as a rabbi. This astonishment speaks to the supernatural wisdom and authority that Jesus carried, which defied human expectations and norms. It serves as a testament to Jesus’ divine nature and His unique role as the Son of God. Jesus clarifies the source of His authority in verses 16-18. He distinguishes His teachings from those of the religious leaders by emphasizing that His authority comes directly from God, the one who sent Him. This assertion not only solidifies Jesus’ divinity but also challenges the traditional religious hierarchy that relied on earthly credentials and positions of power. Jesus’ message cuts through societal structures and highlights the primacy of divine authority in matters of spiritual truth.
Verse 19 introduces a significant theme in this passage, the issue of circumcising on the Sabbath. Jewish law required circumcision on the eighth day after a male child’s birth, even if it fell on the Sabbath. Jesus confronts the religious leaders’ hypocrisy and legalistic tendencies by referencing this law. He points out their inconsistency in adhering strictly to certain laws while failing to grasp the deeper spiritual principles behind them. Jesus’ criticism serves as a call to genuine righteousness and a reminder that adherence to rituals alone is not sufficient without a heart aligned with God’s will. Jesus further elaborates on the importance of righteous judgment in verses 20-24. He challenges the people to look beyond external appearances and make judgments based on truth and righteousness. Jesus metaphorically urges them to focus on inner purity and integrity rather than superficial observances by cleansing the inside of the cup. This call to discernment and righteous judgment echoes throughout the Bible, reminding believers to seek God’s wisdom and truth in evaluating themselves and others. John 7:14-24 encapsulates Jesus’ authority, wisdom, and call to righteous judgment. Through His teachings and interactions, Jesus challenges conventional norms, exposes hypocrisy, and underscores the primacy of divine truth. This passage prompts believers to examine their hearts, prioritize spiritual authenticity over legalism, and embrace God’s wisdom in discerning what is truly righteous. The timeless message here encourages a deepening of faith, a pursuit of genuine righteousness, and a commitment to aligning one’s life with God’s truth, echoing themes found consistently throughout the Bible.
John 7:25-31
Several crucial sections can be identified in John 7:25-31. Jesus is teaching in the temple courts during the Feast of Tabernacles, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites’ wilderness journey. The people are divided in their opinions about Jesus, some believing in Him while others questioning His identity. The Pharisees, who are often in opposition to Jesus, send officers to arrest Him, but they are unable to carry out their plan because of the power of Jesus’ words. The people in the first section of this passage question among themselves whether Jesus could indeed be the Messiah. They raise doubts based on their knowledge of His background and origins. Jesus’ humble beginnings in Nazareth, a town with a questionable reputation, lead some to wonder how such a man could be the promised Savior. This highlights a common theme in Jesus’ ministry – His tendency to challenge societal norms and expectations, often confounding the wise and learned with His unconventional ways. The Pharisees hear the murmurs of the crowd, becoming concerned about Jesus gaining more followers and disrupting their authority. They send officers to arrest Him, showing their fear of His growing influence and the threat He poses to their status quo. However, despite their intentions, the officers are captivated by Jesus’ teachings and are unable to carry out their orders. This showcases the captivating power of Jesus’ message, which has the ability to transform even those who were initially sent to oppose Him.
This passage in John 7 underscores the ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time. The Pharisees, representing the religious establishment, are depicted as actively working against Jesus, trying to suppress His teachings and prevent Him from gaining more followers. This sets the stage for the larger narrative of Jesus’ ultimate confrontation with the religious leaders, culminating in His crucifixion and resurrection. The timeless message of Jesus’ teachings reminds us as we reflect on this passage. He challenges us to look beyond outward appearances and societal expectations, emphasizing the importance of faith and spiritual truth over worldly standards. Jesus’ ability to captivate even those sent to oppose Him reminds us of the transformative power of His message, which has the potential to change hearts and minds, even in the most unlikely circumstances. This passage in John 7 serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing spiritual warfare between the forces of light and darkness. It highlights the courage and conviction required to stand firm in one’s beliefs, even in the face of opposition and persecution. Through the example of Jesus and His interactions with the people and religious leaders of His time, we are called to examine our own faith and commitment to following Christ, regardless of the challenges we may face.
John 7:32-36
The chief priests and Pharisees who were sent to arrest Jesus are having a conversation in John 7:32-36. The chief priests and Pharisees were troubled by Jesus’ teachings and influence among the people, seeing Him as a threat to their authority and the stability of the Jewish community. When they send officers to arrest Jesus, they return empty-handed, amazed by His words. The officers are struck by the authority with which Jesus speaks, something they had never encountered before. This emphasizes the power and impact of Jesus’ teachings, which had a profound effect even on those who were meant to oppose Him.
This passage showcases the divine authority of Jesus and His ability to transcend human understanding. Despite the attempts to capture Him, Jesus continues to teach openly in the temple courts, fearlessly proclaiming the truth of His message. This challenges the established religious leaders of the time and forces them to confront the possibility that Jesus is indeed the Messiah they have been waiting for. The conflicting reactions to Jesus’ teachings illustrate the division He causes among the people; some are drawn to Him by His words, while others, like the chief priests and Pharisees, are threatened by His growing influence.
This encounter in John 7:32-36 echoes the broader theme of opposition and disbelief that Jesus faced throughout His ministry. The skepticism and hostility of the religious authorities towards Jesus were recurring motifs in the Gospels, emphasizing the radical nature of His teachings and the challenge He posed to the status quo. Despite the rejection He faced, Jesus remained steadfast in His mission, unwavering in His commitment to reveal God’s truth and offer salvation to all who would believe in Him. This passage in the context of the entire Gospel of John foreshadows the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion. The growing tension between Jesus and the religious leaders would eventually culminate in His betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion. This confrontation underscores the central conflict between the kingdom of God that Jesus came to establish and the earthly powers that sought to oppose Him. Through His unwavering courage and divine authority, Jesus challenges us to consider where we stand in relation to Him – whether we will accept Him as the Son of God or reject Him like the chief priests and Pharisees. This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of discipleship and the challenges that come with following Christ in a world that may not always understand or accept His message.
John 7:37-39
Jesus stood and cried, saying, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink,” on the last day, that great day of the feast. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified. In this passage from John, we can break down the meaning into a few key sections. First, it is important to note the setting in which these words were spoken. Jesus was at the Feast of Tabernacles, a significant Jewish holiday that commemorated the time when the Israelites wandered in the wilderness and God provided water from a rock to quench their thirst. This context adds depth to the imagery of thirst and water that Jesus uses to convey spiritual truths.
When Jesus stood and cried out, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink,” He was not referring to physical thirst but rather to a spiritual thirst for the living water that only He can provide. This invitation is universal – open to any who seek Him. The idea of coming to Jesus and drinking from Him is symbolic of receiving salvation and the Holy Spirit through faith in Him. This is in line with other verses in the Bible that speak of Jesus as the source of everlasting life and satisfaction, such as John 4:14 where Jesus tells the Samaritan woman at the well, “but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
The promise that “out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” refers to the overflowing abundance and blessing that comes from a believer who is filled with the Holy Spirit. The imagery of rivers of living water conveys a sense of vitality, refreshment, and the continual flow of God’s grace and power in the life of the believer. This concept is also echoed in the Old Testament, such as in Psalm 36:8-9, “They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.”
Lastly, the explanation that follows in verse 39 clarifies that Jesus was speaking about the Holy Spirit, the source of this living water, which would be given to believers after Jesus was glorified. This points to the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost after Jesus’ ascension, fulfilling His promise to send the advocate, the Comforter, to be with His followers always (John 14:16-17). This passage in John 7:37-39 conveys the timeless message of Jesus as the source of spiritual nourishment and the Holy Spirit as the giver of abundant life to those who believe in Him. It calls believers to come to Him, receive His life-giving water, and be filled with the overflowing power and blessings of the Holy Spirit, leading to a transformed and fruitful life.
John 7:40-44
Some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet,” upon hearing his words in John 7:40-44.’ Others said, ‘He is the Messiah.’ Still others asked, ‘How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David’s descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?’ Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.”
This passage reveals the diverse responses among the crowd to Jesus’ teaching and presence. Some considered him to be the Prophet, referring to the prophet predicted in Deuteronomy 18:15-18, while others believed he was the long-awaited Messiah. The mention of the Messiah coming from Bethlehem and being a descendant of David alludes to messianic prophecies in the Old Testament (Micah 5:2, 2 Samuel 7:12-13). Jesus being from Galilee seemingly conflicted with these prophecies in the eyes of some.
The division among the people mirrors the contrasting reactions Jesus often evoked throughout his ministry. His teachings and actions challenged traditional beliefs and expectations, causing some to embrace him wholeheartedly as the promised Messiah, while others rejected him or were skeptical due to their preconceived ideas about how the Messiah should appear.
The passage also highlights the political and social tension surrounding Jesus. Some in the crowd wanted to seize him, possibly out of fear or a desire to maintain the status quo. However, as the verse notes, no one laid a hand on him at that moment, indicating that Jesus’ time had not yet come and that his mission was unfolding according to a divine plan.
This section of John 7 underscores the theme of disbelief and division in response to Jesus, a recurring motif in his ministry as depicted throughout the Gospels. It challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and preconceptions about Jesus, urging them to consider whether they truly recognize him for who he is – the long-awaited Messiah, the Savior of the world.
John 7:45-52
The temple guards, who were sent to arrest Jesus for causing disturbances during the Feast of Tabernacles, return to the religious leaders without Him in John 7:45-52. This passage is rich in symbolism and sheds light on the response of different groups to Jesus’s teachings and actions during his ministry.
The temple guards were likely tasked with maintaining order in the temple and were under the authority of the chief priests and Pharisees. They were sent to arrest Jesus because he was gaining a significant following and his teachings were seen as a challenge to the religious establishment. However, when they return empty-handed, their explanation is quite profound. They respond to the Pharisees and chief priests saying, “No one ever spoke the way this man does.” This acknowledgment underscores the captivating power of Jesus’s words and points to the fact that there was something undeniably unique about His teachings.
The guards’ response challenges the religious leaders’ preconceived notions about Jesus and forces them to confront the possibility that He might indeed be more than just a troublemaker. The fact that these guards, who were likely not well-versed in the intricacies of religious debates, were so struck by Jesus’s words speaks volumes about the transformative power of His message.
This passage also highlights the growing tension and division among the people regarding Jesus’s identity. The Pharisees dismiss the guards’ perspective and criticize them for being influenced by Jesus’s words. They retort, “Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him?” This question is meant to discredit Jesus in the eyes of the guards and reinforces the religious leaders’ rejection of Him. This interaction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the themes of belief, faith, and spiritual discernment that will unfold as Jesus’s ministry continues. It underscores the importance of being open to the possibility of encountering truth and wisdom in unexpected places, even if it challenges our existing beliefs and societal structures. Approach matters of faith with humility, openness, and a willingness to reevaluate assumptions in light of divine revelation.
This moment in John 7 is a pivotal point in Jesus’s ministry, where we see various reactions to Him that foreshadow the ultimate rejection He will face from the religious authorities. It also sets the stage for deeper conversations and confrontations that will culminate in Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection, underscoring the central message of the Gospel regarding the rejection and ultimate triumph of Christ. Prophets in the Old Testament were often rejected and ridiculed for bringing messages that challenged the status quo when we delve deeper into the biblical narrative. Jesus, as the ultimate prophet, faces a similar fate but ultimately triumphs over sin and death, fulfilling the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament. The events of John 7:45-52 point to the overarching narrative of redemption and salvation that unfolds throughout the Bible, emphasizing the need for faith, discernment, and a willingness to embrace the transformative power of God’s Word.
John 7:53
Everyone went to their own house after a day of intense debates and discussions surrounding Jesus in the temple courts, beginning with the mention of this in John 7:53. This seemingly simple detail of people returning home sets the stage for what unfolds in the very next verse, where Jesus encounters the woman caught in adultery. The mention of people dispersing to their homes serves as a transition point leading to the powerful narrative that follows.
This particular verse in John 7 is unique in that it is often included in some manuscripts after John 7:36, while others place it after John 7:44. Regardless of its placement, it holds significance in the flow of events in John’s Gospel. The Gospel of John is rich in theological depth and symbolism, and each verse, even when seemingly incidental, contributes to the overarching themes presented in the book.
The departure of the crowd to their homes also signifies a moment of pause before the next significant event in the narrative. It creates a sense of anticipation for the reader as they wonder what will happen next. Such pauses in storytelling can build tension and intrigue, leading to a climactic moment that captures the audience’s attention. The movement of people back to their houses allows for a shift in focus from the public setting of the temple to a more intimate and personal encounter that is about to take place with Jesus and the woman caught in adultery.
This verse serves as a reminder of the ordinary rhythms of life amidst extraordinary events. People returning to their homes after witnessing the teachings and miracles of Jesus illustrates how the divine intersects with the mundane. It shows that faith is not just about dramatic moments in public spaces but also about how it impacts individuals in their daily lives. Just as the people in this passage went back to their houses, we too are called to carry the message of Jesus into our everyday experiences, allowing it to transform us and those around us. This verse in the larger context of John’s Gospel highlights the contrast between the world’s ways and God’s ways. While the people disperse to their homes, Jesus, the Light of the World, continues to shine in the darkness, ready to confront sin and offer grace. This sets the stage for the redemptive work of Christ, who does not condemn the woman caught in adultery but extends forgiveness and calls her to a new way of life. This theme of Jesus bringing light into the darkness and offering hope to the broken and contrite is woven throughout the Gospel of John and resonates with the overarching message of redemption and salvation. This seemingly simple verse in John 7:53 serves as a pivotal moment leading up to the powerful encounter between Jesus and the woman caught in adultery, demonstrating the intersection of divine grace with human brokenness and the transformative power of encountering Christ in the midst of our everyday lives.
After John 7
Jesus faced opposition and disbelief from the people around Him, even from His own brothers in this chapter. Despite the challenges and doubts, Jesus continued to teach with authority and perform miracles that left many in awe. The chapter ends with a division among the crowd regarding who Jesus truly is – some believe Him to be the Prophet, while others question His origins. His truth will always prevail, even though faith in Jesus may be met with skepticism and resistance. We should remain steadfast in our belief, trusting in His power and wisdom even when others may doubt. Jesus brings hope in the face of uncertainty, and we should hold on to it, knowing that He is the way, the truth, and the life.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.