They Silenced One of Their Own

John 7:50-52 Nicodemus (he who came to Him before, being one of them) said to them, “Our Law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?” They answered him, “You are not also from Galilee, are you? Search, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.”

In earlier verses we read of a division among the people because of personal opinions about who Jesus was. The chief priests and Pharisees desired to get their hands on Jesus, but would not dare. Instead, they tasked the officers with taking Him captive and doing their dirty work. However, the officers, being impressed with the way Jesus spoke (although it did not change their hearts) refused to take hold of Him. The Pharisees, being upset, insulted the intelligence of the people and basically put down the officers, accusing them of being deceived. Now we have Nicodemus, who was also a Pharisee, and who questioned them in respect to how they should give Jesus a fair hearing, in accordance with the Law. Their response to him revealed what was truly in their hearts. They were not one bit interested in the truth, but in meeting their own agenda, even if it meant rejecting and silencing one of their own. Sadly, this is still seen today within the church. There are some who will overlook the truth in order to avoid "disturbing the apple cart". They will allow sinful behavior, based on who is the offender, and instead quickly silence the one(s) who come forth in light of the truth. They will allow division, rather than confront what the Word of God clearly states should be confronted; in love of course. The Pharisees had their own agenda, their own club, and anyone who dared disturb their hypocrisy with truth was immediately silenced or outcast. We must be wise and careful to examine a matter based on God's truth, and not our own personal agendas. Let us not silence the voice of truth when it speaks out for the glory of God and His church.

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Romans 10:13).