Thoughts on the Gospel of John (84) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Therefore there was a division again among the Jews because of these sayings. And many of them said, He has a demon and is mad. Why do you listen to him? Others said, These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?
John 10:19-21.

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (84)
By means of the comparisons with doors, shepherds and sheep the Lord had indicated what great changes would take place after He appeared in the midst of the people of Israel. They were words of grace and truth. But the ideas and interests of many of His listeners hindered them from accepting God's grace. They ascribed His words to the influence of demonic powers. It was not the first time that this reproach had been brought upon the Son of God (cf. ch. 7:20; 8:52).

There was, however, a minority still impressed by the miraculous healing Jesus had performed on the blind man. And they did not leave things at this conspicuous sign, but listened attentively to the Lord's words. Their conscience was touched. They now cautiously took a stand against Jesus' enemies' unfounded assumption. We do not know how many of this minority were still uncertain or dubious, nor how many came to true saving faith in the Son of God then or later. At the time, at any rate, they were struck by the Redeemer's miracles and powerful words.

Among Jesus' apostles Thomas was the one who was occasionally plagued by uncertainty and doubt. But when Jesus appeared before him as the risen Lord, Thomas' confession was clear enough: "My Lord and my God!" (ch. 20:28).

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Jeremiah 7:1-34 · Luke 21:1-11