John 7:25-52
Dear RTB’ers,
Interesting dynamics in today’s reading… The chief priests and the Pharisees send temple officers to arrest Jesus (v. 32). These officers fail in their task, presumably on the basis of their belief in Jesus’ words (vv. 45-46). But the crowd around Jesus was also split – many believed in Him (v. 31), but others wanted Him arrested (v. 44). It’s a repeat of my post from yesterday – people split over Jesus.
Two other items stand out for me. First, …as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (v. 39b) This verse has always intrigued me. Many scholars and commentators hold that this verse saw “completion” at Pentecost, following Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension. It has made me wonder whether Jesus and the Holy Spirit could not co-exist on earth together? A good item for discussion tomorrow…!
Second, Nicodemus (vv. 50-52). We had earlier met Nicodemus in chapter 3 (vv. 1-21), coming to visit Jesus at night. We’ll see him again in 19:39, bringing spices for Jesus’ burial. Today he brings up a point of defense against the Pharisees judging Jesus, but is quickly chastised by them. He is a prominent figure in the TV series, The Chosen, especially earlier episodes, and is venerated as a saint in many Christian denominations.
Blessings.
Fred