John 7: Misperceptions

A few random thoughts and questions from our reading today concerning different people. If you are short on time jsut concentrate on one section.

Jesus' biological brothers on their way to the harvest festival mocked Him for not "making a name for himself" (v3-5).  Jesus' response focuses on TIME.  The TIME for Jesus' death/resurrection was not now.  Though, these brothers did not believe (v5) now, we  come to learn that after His death/resurrection, "THE TIME", some brothers did come to faith (e.g. James; 1 Cor. 15:7)

• How does Jesus' time compare to our notion that "anytime is right?"
• Those who tried to size Jesus could not "because his time had not yet come".  What can I learn from this and how can I be encouraged to trust's God's time?

The "worshipers" in the temple ask two questions.  "How is it that that this man has learning, when he has never studied?" (v15) Jesus responds (v16-19) and they respond, "You have a demon! Who is seeking to kill you?"Jesus ends his response, "Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment." (v24)

• Jesus' point is that the Law must be applied in the context of God's grace and mercy (see Matthew 12:1-8) instead of legalism.  Likewise we jump to conclusions with out hearing someone out. 
• When you began reading John did you see Jesus as meek and quiet? Have you begun to see His courage and commitment?  

The believers  are the ones he speaks of on the last day of the feast, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me as the scripture has said, 'Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'" (v38-39) 

• Notice this invitation for anyone, which we heard in John 4 as well at Jacob's well.  Is God inviting you to quench your thirst? Is God calling you to believe?
• How can the experience of this living water, stream to others?

Nicodemus, John 3, comes back on scene (just like the words spoken to the women at the well) not in the dark this time, but in the daylight of the religious leaders saying "Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?"  Today, people continue to misjudge Jesus on the basis of their own feelings and perceptions. 

• The Pharisees' were prideful and stubborn. (v47-52).  Is there any way in which I am prideful, stubborn, or prejudice that causes me to demonize others?
• Do I pause and allow myself to repent when my contradictions or pride are pointed out?

 People Today continue to misjudge Jesus as another lawgiver.  They fail to see that Jesus is a merciful Savior who would bear our misdeeds on the cross and rise to new life, so we too may receive the living water.  Just yesterday, I heard again the misperception of Jesus.  "No, it's to late for me to believe; I'm too far gone."  If you are still breathing it is not too late.