Why did the Galileans welcome Jesus, and how can we welcome Him today? Setting the Scene “When He arrived in Galilee, the Galileans welcomed Him. They had seen all that He had done in Jerusalem at the feast, for they themselves had gone to the feast.” (John 4:45) Why Did the Galileans Welcome Jesus? • They were eyewitnesses to His works in Jerusalem – “While He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the signs He was performing and believed in His name.” (John 2:23) • His reputation had already spread from Cana, where He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). • Their hearts were stirred by expectation of the Messiah promised in Scripture (Isaiah 9:1-2; Micah 5:2). • They were seeking tangible help and hope, and Jesus met real needs through miracles and teaching. • God’s providence prepared them—Galilee was a crossroads; word traveled quickly and anticipation grew. Lessons from Their Welcome • Welcoming Christ begins with acknowledging what He has already done. • Genuine reception is more than curiosity; it leads to belief (John 4:53). • Miracles may attract, but faith must rest on His word (John 4:48; Romans 10:17). • Public testimony matters: those who returned from the feast spread the news, encouraging others to receive Him. Practical Ways to Welcome Jesus Today 1. Believe and receive Him personally – “But to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12) 2. Open every area of life to His presence – “Behold, I stand at the door and knock…” (Revelation 3:20) 3. Let His word dwell richly in you – “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” (Colossians 3:16) 4. Obey what He says – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” (James 1:22) 5. Offer your life in worship and service – “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices…” (Romans 12:1) 6. Practice continual praise and generosity – “Through Jesus… let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… and do not neglect to do good and to share with others.” (Hebrews 13:15-16) 7. Share His works with others, just as the Galileans did, so more hearts are prepared to welcome Him. A Closing Reflection The Galileans welcomed Jesus because they saw His mighty works and recognized the hope He offered. Today, we welcome Him by trusting His finished work on the cross, submitting to His authoritative word, and inviting His presence into every corner of life. As we do, our lives become living testimonies that point others to the Savior who is still willing to be welcomed. |
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