John 7:10-24

John 7:10–24:

Jesus’ brothers had already gone to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles. 

He followed secretly, avoiding the public spotlight. 

Halfway through the feast He entered the temple and began teaching. 

The crowds were astonished: “How is this man so learned when He has never studied?” 

Jesus answered plainly: “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone’s will is to do God’s will, he will know whether the teaching is from God.”

He then exposed their hypocrisy. 

They plotted to kill Him for one miracle of healing on the Sabbath, yet they themselves circumcised on the Sabbath to keep Moses’ law. “Do not judge by appearances,” Jesus urged, “but judge with right judgment.”

Reflection:

This passage reminds us that true knowledge of God never begins with human credentials or cleverness; it begins with the sovereign grace of the Father who sends the Son and the Spirit who opens blind eyes. 

Jesus’ words in verse 17 are not a works-righteousness test but a description of regeneration: when God gives us a new heart that wills to do the Father’s will, the truth of Christ suddenly shines clear.

The Pharisees judged by outward appearance and selective law-keeping; we are called to judge righteously by the whole counsel of Scripture. 

Christ is Lord of the Sabbath and fulfillment of the law—He heals and saves even when religious rules say “not today.”

So today: lay aside self-taught opinions and cultural appearances. 

Submit your will afresh to God’s Word. 

The same Spirit who taught the crowds through the incarnate Word still illumines that Word for you. 

Rest in the finished work of the One who was sent, and you will know the truth that sets you free.

Soli Deo gloria.