How can we respond to opposition when sharing our faith like Jesus did? The Setting in John 8:59 “Therefore they picked up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus was hidden and went out of the temple area.” (John 8:59) • Moments earlier, Jesus had declared, “Before Abraham was born, I am!” (v. 58). • His claim to divinity ignited fury; the crowd reached for stones. • Instead of engaging in a physical confrontation, Jesus slipped away—unharmed, undeterred, and still completely in control of His mission. Observations from Jesus’ Response • Calm courage—no panic, no compromise. • Unwillingness to retaliate—He offered no angry words or counter-threats. • Strategic withdrawal—He discerned that staying would serve neither His Father’s timing nor the crowd’s good. • Continual focus on truth—His earlier words stood; He did not retract them to ease tension. Key Principles for Us • Expect opposition. “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) • Hold the line on truth—never dilute the gospel for approval. • Discern timing—there is a moment to speak and a moment to step back (Ecclesiastes 3:7). • Leave judgment to God. “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17) Practical Steps When Opposition Rises 1. Stay rooted in Scripture – Let God’s Word anchor emotions (Psalm 119:165). 2. Respond with grace and clarity – “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.” (Colossians 4:6) 3. Evaluate whether to continue or withdraw – When rejection hardens, Jesus sometimes moved on (Matthew 10:14). 4. Keep eternity in view – Suffering now cannot compare with future glory (Romans 8:18). 5. Pray for boldness, not escape alone – The early church prayed, “Grant that Your servants may speak Your word with all boldness.” (Acts 4:29) Encouragement from the Rest of Scripture • Luke 4:29-30—Another attempted stoning ends with Jesus calmly “passing through their midst.” • 1 Peter 2:23—“When He was reviled, He did not revile in return… but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” • Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath.” • Philippians 1:29—Opposition is also a gift: “For to you it has been granted… to suffer for His sake.” A Closing Reflection Opposition is not a signal to abandon our witness; it is a reminder to mirror Jesus—anchored in truth, guided by discernment, gentle in spirit, and unwavering in mission. |
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