Hard Hearts or Prepared Hearts- John Chapter 5

It had been roughly 400 years since God had sent the prophet Malachi to Israel by the time John the Baptist came on the scene. The people were under Roman occupation and desperate for God to send them a prophet and even better in their minds the Messiah.

Hundreds flocked to John to be baptized and he was revered as being a prophet sent by God. John clearly stated his purpose which was to prepare the people for the coming of the Savior.

So when Jesus brought up John as a witness on his behalf, it was something the religious leaders had a hard time refuting.

“If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is true.

 “You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.

Jesus brought up another witness for him which they had a hard time refuting-the miracles Jesus performed.

“I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish—the very works that I am doing—testify that the Father has sent me. 

The hardness of the hearts of the Pharisees, the religious leaders, made it so no matter what testimony or proof that Jesus is the Savior, they would not accept it. They were more concerned about their own grip on control and power and Jesus was a threat to that.

Jesus held nothing back as he spoke with them.

I do not accept glory from human beings, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

He pointed out that they were only concerned about their own egos not the love of God.

Are we more concerned with our own egos or with the love of God?

Do we want to follow man made rules or the Savior who loved us so much he gave his lfie for us?

Are our hearts hardened or ready for Jesus?

Thank you for reading. God Bless.