N.T.#726 "Challenges"
Feb. 2, 2026
John 7-Part 4
LET IT GLOW
There was talk behind the scenes. The Pharisees were trying to get the officers to arrest Jesus, but there was no basis for that. Nicodemus brought to the attention of the Pharisees, being one of them, that they were violating the law in judging a man without hearing him. (verses 40-53)
The Pharisees claimed no prophet came out of Galilee. This revealed their ignorance of the Scriptures. Jonah, Nahum, Elijah, and Hosea came from Galilee. The Sanhedrin adjourned and everyone went home. (verse 53) We know the Pharisees would not quit until they killed the As a Pharisee, he Messiah. Jesus' hour was months away.
Nicodemus became a secret believer. As a Pharisee, he risked his reputation and high position, going to Jesus by night, as well as speaking up for Jesus indirectly. You will recall that after Jesus' death, Nic brought spices for His body. (19:39) That is the last time he is mentioned in Scriptures.
While Jesus came to earth to die for the sins of the world, He had no suicide mission. He didn't seek the first available opportunity to be arrested. We must balance three primary issues: trust in god, danger from enemies, and dedication to mission. As the Lord walked among the lions in Jerusalem, He perfectly balanced all three. (Swindoll)
LET IT GROW
Are you having challenges because of your beliefs? Jesus faced challenges, too. Nothing occurs unless God permits it. Stay faithful at the task God has for you. Complete it. Endure whatever. Draw strength from the Lord. Cast your cares on Him, for He cares and loves for us.
Let us fervently pray, assess the danger, plan our approach, remain focused on the goal, seek to glorify God in all our actions, trust Him to accomplish His will, complete the task at hand without reluctance, and then retreat to safety at the right time. (Swindoll's Insights on John)
Sometimes staying is what the Lord wants us to do, endure. Sometimes it is time to leave. Seek God's will in your situation before either. Grace sustains, mercy endures.
LET IT GO
Keep us near You, Precious Jesus.
Show us Your will, Your way.
