What does John 7:10 teach about God's timing in fulfilling His plans? Setting the Scene John 7 records Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles. His brothers urge Him to go publicly and display Himself (7:3-4), but Jesus replies, “My time has not yet come” (7:6). Verse 10 then states: “But after His brothers had gone up to the feast, He also went, not publicly, but in secret.” Observations from John 7:10 • Jesus does attend the feast, but on His own timetable. • He moves “not publicly, but in secret,” choosing a quiet arrival rather than the public spectacle His brothers suggested. • His actions follow the Father’s schedule, not human expectations. Lessons about Divine Timing • God’s plan unfolds at the precise moment He appoints. – Jesus’ delay wasn’t hesitation; it was intentional obedience. • Obedience sometimes means waiting until the Father signals “now.” – Compare John 2:4 and John 12:23; Jesus repeatedly speaks of “the hour” that must arrive. • God’s timing may look slow to people yet is perfectly synchronized with His larger purpose. • Divine timing often bypasses worldly strategies for success or visibility. – His brothers wanted publicity; the Father wanted privacy. Supporting Scriptures • John 7:6 – “My time has not yet come.” • Galatians 4:4 – “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent His Son.” • Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in Your hands.” • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” • John 11:6 – Jesus remains two more days before going to Lazarus, illustrating purposeful delay. Living This Truth Today • Trust that God’s schedule for your life is flawless even when it contrasts with your own plans. • Resist pressure to force outcomes before God opens the door. • Evaluate opportunities by prayerfully asking, “Is this God’s moment or merely my moment?” • Remember that unseen obedience—like Jesus’ secret arrival—can be just as pivotal as public ministry. |
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