Seeing Yet Not Believing
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 26, 2024 | John 12:37-41
KEY VERSE:
Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. John 12:37 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Some people can't and won't believe God's truth even when it is spoken and shown. One reason is that their hearts are hardened to the truth. This is a profound and sobering truth about the human heart and the mystery of unbelief. Despite the numerous miracles and signs that Jesus performed, many still refused to believe in Him. This was not due to a lack of evidence but rather a fulfilment of prophecy, revealing a deeper spiritual condition.
Isaiah prophesied that there would be people whose eyes are blinded and hearts hardened, preventing them from understanding and accepting the message of salvation. This hardening of hearts highlights the tragic reality that witnessing miracles and hearing the truth does not automatically result in faith. Isaiah's vision of Jesus' glory underscores the greatness of Christ, who is worthy of belief and worship. Yet, many remain spiritually blind and unresponsive. This calls us to reflect on our hearts and our response to Jesus' message. It also encourages us to pray for those who struggle with unbelief, recognising that spiritual blindness can only be healed through God's intervention. As we reflect on this passage, let us seek a deeper understanding and commitment to Jesus, ensuring that our faith is genuine and our hearts are soft towards His message.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Examine your faith and the ways you respond to Jesus. Understand that just seeing miracles and hearing the gospel are not enough; a heart open to God and a willingness to believe are crucial. You must guard against the hardening of your heart and remain receptive to the truth of Christ.
PRAYER:
Gracious and sovereign God, thank you for revealing your glory through Jesus Christ. Forgive me for the times I've been blind to your truth and hardened my heart. Soften my heart and open my eyes to believe in your message. I pray for those who have rejected you. Please work in their lives and give your people a chance to share your grace with them. In Jesus' name. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: AFTER The Greek word μετὰ (meta), often translated as "after," denotes sequence in time or space. It implies that a series of events (Jesus’ miracles) had occurred before the resulting state (continued unbelief). Despite Jesus performing many signs and miracles to validate His divine authority, most people still did not believe in Him, reflecting the themes of spiritual blindness and hard-heartedness throughout John's Gospel. Notably, the themes of spiritual blindness and hard-heartedness appear multiple times in John's Gospel (e.g., John 1:11, John 9:39-41, John 12:40), emphasizing the persistent resistance to Jesus' message and mission. The word "After" illustrates human free will and the mystery of belief, showing that even with overwhelming evidence of Jesus' divinity, belief is not guaranteed. Persistent unbelief despite miracles fulfils prophecy, indicating such resistance was anticipated in the divine plan. Reflections: Consider the areas in your own life where you might struggle with belief despite witnessing God's work. How can you overcome these barriers to deepen your faith?
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