Scripture: John 4:1 (ESV) – “Now when Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John.”
This verse marks a transition in John’s Gospel, shifting the narrative from Jesus’ interaction with Nicodemus to His encounter with the Samaritan woman. The Pharisees have taken notice of Jesus’ growing influence, and though Jesus Himself was not performing the baptisms (John 4:2), His disciples were actively baptizing more people than John the Baptist. This rising popularity caught the attention of the religious leaders, prompting Jesus to move from Judea to Galilee.
The document emphasizes the historical and religious tensions surrounding this moment. The Pharisees had already been concerned about John the Baptist’s ministry, as his call for repentance and baptism challenged their religious authority. Now, with Jesus gaining even more followers, their concern would have deepened. While John the Baptist understood that his role was to prepare the way for Christ, the Pharisees saw Jesus’ growing influence as a threat to their power and control.
James Montgomery Boice, in his Expositional Commentary on the Gospel of John, highlights how this verse foreshadows the mounting opposition to Jesus. He explains that the Pharisees were not concerned about truth or salvation, but about maintaining their influence. Boice also points out that Jesus’ decision to leave was not out of fear, but because His time to confront the religious leaders had not yet come. This aligns with Jesus’ pattern throughout the Gospels—He moves according to the Father’s divine timetable, ensuring that each moment in His ministry unfolds according to God’s perfect plan.
For us, this verse is a reminder that true faith will often face opposition. Jesus was doing the will of God, yet He still encountered resistance from those who valued tradition and power over the truth. This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts—are we willing to follow Christ even when it brings opposition? It also reassures us that Jesus is always in control, moving according to God’s perfect plan.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think the Pharisees were so concerned about Jesus’ growing influence?
- Have you ever faced opposition or skepticism because of your faith in Christ? How did you respond?
- How does Jesus’ example of moving according to God’s plan encourage you to trust in His timing for your own life?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we see in this passage that Your growing influence was met with resistance, yet You continued to move according to the Father’s will. Help us to trust in Your divine timing in our own lives, even when we face challenges or opposition. Give us boldness to stand firm in faith, knowing that true discipleship often comes with resistance. May we always follow where You lead, confident that Your plan is perfect. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on Pastor Chris Cousine’s sermon material and supplemented with insights from James Montgomery Boice’s Expositional Commentary on the Gospel of John on John 4:1.
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