Thoughts on the Gospel of John (107) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Now a great many of the Jews knew that he was there, and they came, not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.
John 12:9-11.

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (107)
Jesus and His disciples were dining in Bethany that evening with Martha, Mary and Lazarus. The solemn atmosphere in the house, when Mary anointed the Lord's feet with precious spikenard was spoiled when Judas, the thief and traitor intervened. The Lord, however, rectified the situation by lovingly defending Mary and telling the disciples of His forthcoming death.

Mary's thoughts were occupied with Jesus; Judas apparently had "the poor" in mind, while many Jews, who had come to the house in Bethany were interested only in Jesus and Lazarus, whose resurrection was a mighty testimony to Jesus' deity, so that they wanted to see things for themselves.

How differently the groups of persons present reacted! Jesus' three friends in Bethany loved Him; Judas thought only of himself, while the multitude was basically curious, some believed. Then there was the group that hated the Lord: the high priests. In their religious fanaticism they did all in their power to be rid of Jesus and with Him Lazarus, who was a living witness of His grace and power.

Over the centuries much has changed, but one thing remains: the closer the intimacy between disciples and Jesus, their Master, and the more His power is visible in their lives, the less they are wanted in this world. "All who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12).

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Judges 12:1-15 · 2 Corinthians 11:16-21