John 11, Part 5

Scripture: John 11:45-54

Observation: It would be expected that, after seeing the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead, the people would believe in Jesus. Many did; but some went to the Pharisees to tell them what had been done. This report troubled the Pharisees and they called a meeting of the council (v.47). They were concerned that many were believing in Jesus because of His miracles, and this could cause the Romans to "come and destroy both our holy place and our nation (v.48)." Actually, they were more concerned with their own positions and not that of the people. Caiaphas makes this clear when he tells them that it is better for them if one man dies than the whole nation be destroyed (v.50). Unknowingly, Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation of Israel and for all God's children (v.51-52). The members of the Sanhedrin saw Jesus as a threat, and planned to kill Him (v.53). From that time on Jesus removed Himself from among them (v.54).

Application: Does rejection stop God's will from moving forward? Absolutely not! The chief priests chose to reject the Savior and planned on putting Him to death, not realizing they were doing God's work in the process. God is always in control; the fact that we can't see it is irrelevant. God will use us to bring forth His will if we allow Him to; but even if we go against Him, He will use us. Nothing can stop God. He will triumph each time. I need to always be on the winning side, not like the Pharisees who were too concerned about themselves to see the big picture.

Prayer: Father, I realize my vision is limited. I can only see the here and now, and sometimes even that isn't entirely clear. I don't understand why You are rejected, or why anyone would want to live without You guiding them. But You see beyond what I see. You see people's hearts. Help me to trust You even when my vision is impaired. I want You to be my eyes. I want to see people as You see them, everyone with a potential to change and follow You. Thank You for the clarity You have given me, so that I can see You for who You are, Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth. In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.