Yet for fear of the Jews no one spoke openly of him. John 7:13
I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 7:10-13, where Jesus, although initially remaining in Galilee and not going to Judea during the Feast of Booths, does go to Judea - albeit "privately" to avoid greater attention from the Jews seeking to kill him. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: The text is not explicit why Jesus initially does not go to Judea during the Festival of Booths (see vv1, 8) and the other gospel accounts do not discuss this episode. Yet here Jesus apparently changes His mind - and because Jesus acts with intent and there is a plan, one can only surmise that there is a reason why Jesus goes to Judea and this is part of His plan. Looking just at this text we are left with mystery as far as Jesus' intent. Perhaps text elsewhere in John in this and other chapters will give us more clarity.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: In Jerusalem, the Jews continue to look for Jesus - again seeking to kill him. Among the people in Jerusalem, there was much chatter about Jesus both for and against Him. V13 shares how "no one spoke openly of Jesus" out of fear of the Jews.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We know ultimately that Jesus will be arrested and crucified - and the disciples scatter. In John 16:33, the disciples are told by Jesus to take heart as He has overcome the world (in the face of persecution). Jesus does not want us to be living in fear but instead to speak openly of Him and how He saves. We must follow His example and command (Great Commission) to take the Word everywhere. We (believers) too have overcome the world - claim this promise!
My Prayer: Jesus, what an awesome God You are that You have overcome the world and give me the gift of eternal life and the power to defeat sin in my life. I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me daily. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
