John 11:53-57
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 11:53-57 slowly and carefully taking note of anything that stands out or questions that arise.
His coming was prophesied throughout the Old Testament Scriptures, but those who know those Scriptures best now plot his murder.
It’s important to note that not all Jewish people rejected Jesus – his first followers and the people of the early church were primarily Jews. But though many Jews recognized the hope and deliverance available in Jesus, many, if not most of those in positions of power, privilege and authority saw only a threat.
Bible knowledge is not adequate for faith. Unless we read Scripture with the eyes and mind of Jesus, we are in danger of missing the point.
In what ways are you seeking to see like Jesus sees and think like Jesus thinks? Take a moment to ponder this question and then discuss it with Jesus.
Read John 11:53-57 again noticing the significance of the celebration that brings people to Jerusalem.
Passover is the celebration of God’s deliverance of Israel from the oppression and slavery of the Egyptians. On the first Passover, the people of Israel painted the blood of a lamb over the entrances to their homes so death would pass over and not touch them. Their journey to freedom began the next day.
On this Passover Jesus begins his journey to the cross. Over the next few days, the perfect, sinless Lamb of God will be hailed by the crowds as Deliverer and then arrested by the authorities and subsequently tortured and executed. Death will not pass over him. Rather he will surrender himself to death on behalf of all humanity to bring freedom to anyone who believes.
How have you experienced Jesus as Deliverer? Stop to think about this and share your thoughts and feelings with Jesus.
Is there any area of your life where you still feel that you are in bondage? Tell Jesus about this and consider asking him to free you.
As you end this time of reflection, get still in the presence of Jesus and just listen. If you sense Jesus prompting you toward an action of any kind, make a plan to follow through before you go on with your day.
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