John 7:45-53

 John 7.45-53

It always comes down to one simple question: “Who is this Jesus?”  Sooner or later that is the question that MUST be answered.  In the crowd were those who thought He was “the prophet” who would precede the Messiah.  Some thought He was the Messiah Himself.  Some rejected Him as evil, mad or dangerous.  Some believe He would be a political Messiah who would be used by God to throw off Roman oppression.  Some though He was an agitator who would only stir up trouble.  Some rejected Him and closed their eyes and ears to any and all evidence, they refused to listen to any of His teachings.   Some, the Sanhedrin, wanted Him arrested.  At least one member of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemous, wanted to hear out His claims.  It always comes down to the same ultimate question: “Who is Jesus?” 

John points out one interesting reaction for one specific group, “The officers” or temple police.  They were apparently sent to arrest Jesus, but before they took Him into custody they listened to Him.  And having listened to Him they were challenged and changed and could not arrest Him.  When confronted with their failure to arrest Him all they could say was “Never did a man speak the way this man speaks”.   In an honest hearing of this man, Jesus, there is an awareness that He is unique.  All we ask is that people hear what Jesus said.  And after you listen to what He said, make a decision about Him. 

“Lord, help me to hear every day what Jesus says, and shape my life accordingly. AMEN”