Fights to maintain Man-made traditions and rules


John 8 depicts one long showdown between two conflicting worldviews. It begins with the woman caught committing adultery (vv.1–11), then moves on an argument between Jesus and the Pharisees about their fleshly judgment (vv.12–30). Next, the Lord explains what it means to truly be born of Abraham (vv.31–37). Finally, He debates the synagogue leaders about His identity(vv.48—49).

The flawed worldview of the Jewish leaders contributed greatly to their continuing inability to understand Jesus. They sat in a place of power and feared being displaced. Jesus taught that leadership meant serving others; they sought titles and positions of honor. Jesus taught that leadership meant giving up rights; they took pride in their heritage as sons of Abraham. Jesus told them that their actions revealed their true father—- “the devil, father of lies” that’s when they had had enough. This Jesus simply was too radical for them.

Still, they couldn’t win a debate with Him. He seemed to know the Scriptures better than they did! He was different from them— but much to their disappointment, He was right.

The Pharisees sought power and already competed with the Roman Empire for control of the masses. Not only did they have to deal with their own king, Herod, but they also needed to consider a Roman governor named Pontius Pilate, Consequently, they protected every bit of turf they could.

Does this should Like any leader you know? Someone who fights to maintain Man-made traditions and rules? Someone blind to the needs of others and preoccupied with himself or herself? Such leaders stand in contrast to the servant leadership Jesus modeled.

Many times Jesus had to confront opposition among the Pharisees, scribes, and other Jewish leaders. Although Old Testament prophecies called Jesus the “Prince of Peace”, He decided on this day that there could be no peaceful agreement. Jesus stood toe-to-toe with His opponents and tackled the issue head-on—– and things quickly got heated.

Sometimes, confrontation is the only way to resolution. What do we learn from Jesus about confrontation? BE CLEAR AND DIRECT, DON’T DRAW ATTENTION TO YOURSELF, LAY OUT THE ISSUE AND ASK FOR A DECISION, TRUST GOD TO JUSTIFY AND REVEAL THE TRUTH. (John.8: 48—59). These are the four steps to reach the heart of an issue. Confrontation is the Way to Resolution.

Jesus heals a Blind Man and No One Can Deny it. By healing the blind man, Jesus silenced His opposition. When they questioned the man who was healed, he could only declare the result: “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see”(John 9:25). Jesus practiced the Law of Victory. (John 9: 1–34).

God bless.

Yours in Christ,
Mercy Joy, Bangalore.