Missing the Point

Scripture – John 7:1-5: After this, Jesus went around in Galilee, purposely staying away from Judea because the Jews there were waiting to take his life. But when the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles was near, Jesus’ brothers said to him, “You ought to leave here and go to Judea, so that your disciples may see the miracles you do. No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” For even his own brothers did not believe in him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture) What an interesting passage! After a very blunt and pointed confrontation with the Jewish leaders, Jesus moved back north to Galilee. He obviously wanted to maintain a lower profile. But His brothers thought He was making a serious public relations mistake. “No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret.” Their thinking was He should become more visible around Jerusalem, doing more miracles, so more people would see Him. As John is writing this, he understands this reflects a disbelief in who Jesus is – a misunderstanding of His mission. Jesus was not looking to become a “public figure.” He’s looking to be a personal Savior for anyone who believes in Him.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read) I will keep a clear sense of who Jesus is and what He offers. He’s not a magician or someone that’s going to fix all the problems in life and in the world. He will bring about a new creation in each human heart. And as true disciples, He will change the world through us.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer) Lord Jesus, please continue to work in our individual lives. And through us, spread your Light throughout this community and this world.