Scripture to Read: John 7:19–24
From yesterday’s devotion, we know that Jesus began teaching the Jews and declaring to them the truth, for He is the Truth. Today, in John 7:19–24, Jesus challenged the Jews about knowing God’s Law which Moses had given them but that they did not carry out God’s Law. We have a warning from God in James 1:22–24, But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; 24 for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. God never wants us just to fill our minds with His Word, but He expects us to be transformed by His Word. Jesus also asked the Jews why they were trying to kill Him for healing someone on the Sabbath. The Jews tell Jesus He has a demon as if to say, “You’re crazy; no one’s trying to kill You.” But then Jesus reminds them that even they will follow God’s Law to circumcise a man who needs circumcision, and they’ll do it on the Sabbath if necessary. But they are angry with Him and want to kill Him for healing someone and making them whole on the Sabbath. Finally, Jesus challenges them not to judge based on appearances only but with righteous judgment and not with arrogance and pride. We also must guard against unrighteous judgment but judge according to God’s Holy Word.
Challenge & Application
• What was the double standard the Jews were being held accountable to by our Lord?
• How do we guard against living a double standard, but instead, live wholly committed to God’s Word daily?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!