Unbelief

37 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: 38 That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? 39 Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. 41 These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. 42 Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue: 43 For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. John 12:37-43

As we read this sad portion of scripture. I think of all the healings and miracles the people saw. People healed from crippling diseases, blind people seeing for the very first time, the deaf hearing and the dumb finally finding “their voice”. Miracles upon miracles, healings and wonders, not once did Jesus refuse to heal (Matthew 8:17, Mark 1:34, Luke 4:40). John tells us (John 21:25) if everything that Jesus did was written down the world would probably not be able to contain all the books. The people that walked when Jesus was here saw these miracles, yet believed not on him. A very sad commentary indeed, I cannot wonder, “What did they think”. A man crippled from birth and now is walking, not in our time with all of our medical advances, but in the time of Jesus when doctors were scarce. Did they not think it unbelievable? Were they not in awe of each miracle and healing?

Obviously not, for we are told in the next few verses that this very time was prophesied in the Old Testament in Isaiah 53. What a miserable testimony, seeing but not believing because of the fear of men. Many believed, but did not confess Him because they were afraid of being put out of the synagogue. These people would rather have the short time of praise of men then the eternal time with the praise of God. Let’s not fear men but fear God.

Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you. 1Samuel 12:24

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? Psalm 118:6

Is it any wonder God says, “man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart.”

Are you looking for the praise of men or the praise of God?

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1John 2:15

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8

Have a blessed day,
  Donna