When Jesus had said these things, he departed and hid himself from them. 37 Though he had done so many signs before them, they still did not believe in him…
John 12:36-43
After Jesus told the crowd in the Temple about His death, on a cross, He leaves the Temple area and hides from the public. John writes this as a fulfillment of prophecy in Isaiah about many people not being able to believe because their eyes were blinded and their ears were deaf to the words of salvation from God. Isaiah had seen God Almighty in the Temple and Isaiah “came into pieces” at the sight. Isaiah was undone, realizing how much of a sinner he was and was telling his people about their God. But, they would not see or hear Isaiah. Now, John writes that many believed in Jesus, even some authorities. But, fearing the religious leaders, these believers remained in secret to keep from being put out of the synagogues. There are Christians today who worship in secret for fear of the deadly persecution that will come to them if their government knew of their faith in Jesus. But, there will be a time for Christians everywhere to openly confess their belief in Jesus Christ. We cannot hide this Light of life eternal under a basket for long because it must shine the light of salvation to those lost sheep throughout the world. Christians, fear not when that time comes upon you. Just as Stephen, in Acts 6, was given the words, by the Holy Spirit, to speak to his accusers, in the same way, you will be given what to say at such a time. True Christians will be exposed by our enemy, Satan and his demons, but, we are to confess Jesus because you may never know who is listening. Maybe, there will be a Saul, in the crowd, who hears and is converted by God. Keep the faith!!
Source: S C Ball April 5, 2023
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