What actions can we take when facing resistance for our faith like Jesus? Setting the Scene • The Feast of Tabernacles draws crowds to Jerusalem. • “The Jews were amazed and asked, ‘How did this man attain such learning without having studied?’” (John 7:15). • Growing belief in Jesus alarms the authorities. Key Verse: John 7:32 “Then the Pharisees heard the crowd whispering these things about Him, and the chief priests and Pharisees sent servants to arrest Him.” What Jesus Models When Opposition Mounts • Steadfast Mission – He keeps teaching openly (John 7:14, 28). • Calm Courage – He does not panic when the arrest order is issued (John 7:33). • Submission to the Father’s Timing – “My time has not yet come” (John 7:30). • Truth Without Retaliation – He speaks truth plainly, yet without violence (1 Peter 2:23). • Continual Invitation – Even under threat, He invites the thirsty to come and drink (John 7:37-38). Actions We Can Take Today 1. Keep Speaking the Word • Share truth “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). • Refuse to let fear silence testimony (Acts 4:20). 2. Rest in God’s Sovereignty • Trust that no opposition can shorten God-appointed days (Psalm 139:16). • Remember Jesus’ assurance: “No one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand” (John 10:29). 3. Respond with Meekness, Not Retaliation • “Bless those who persecute you” (Romans 12:14). • Follow Jesus’ pattern: when reviled, He “entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23). 4. Maintain Peace Within • Receive the peace Jesus gives, “not as the world gives” (John 14:27). • Cast anxieties on Him because He cares (1 Peter 5:7). 5. Stay Focused on the Bigger Story • Fix eyes on Jesus, who “endured the cross, scorning its shame” (Hebrews 12:2). • Recall the promised reward: “Great is your reward in heaven” when persecuted (Matthew 5:12). 6. Keep Inviting Others to Life • Even critics need living water; extend the offer with grace (John 7:37). • Be ready to give a reason for the hope you have, “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). Strength for the Journey • Daily Scripture intake fortifies faith (Joshua 1:8). • Fellowship with believers provides mutual courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). • The Spirit empowers witness despite opposition (Acts 1:8). Following Jesus’ example in John 7:32, believers can face resistance with purpose, peace, and perseverance, confident that God’s plan cannot be thwarted. |
    |