Jesus Withdraws to Ephraim

A dignified-looking, middle-aged gentleman decided to take advantage of a special sale and buy his wife a pair of nylons. After waiting an hour on the fringe of a screaming, pushing mob of women, he plunged toward the counter with both arms flying. Suddenly a shrill voice hollere … More

Threatened

Many of the people who had come to visit Mary saw the things that Jesus did, and they put their faith in him (v. 45). When Jesus presents Himself there are always two responses. Some believe on Him and others are hardened in their sin. In this case the latter group went to Jerusalem to report what had happened in Bethany (v. 46). Upon learning of this, the Jewish council (Sanhedrin) met to discuss what to do with Jesus (v. 47). If He gathered too many followers, He might get the attention of the Roman authority; and this could hurt the Jewish cause (v. 48). Caiaphas, the high priest, reasons that if Jesus lives, the nation will die (vv. 49-53). In the interest of patriotism, Jesus must die so that the nation will live. These leaders thought they were in control of the situation, but instead God was working out His predetermined plan (Acts 2:23). Christ would die to save the nation spiritually, whereas Caiaphas intended for Him to die to save the nation politically.

Jesus, knowing their intentions, withdrew himself to Ephraim, about fifteen miles north of Jerusalem where He stayed with His disciples (v. 54). This little village provided a place for rest and it was close to the wilderness of Judea in case it was necessary to escape. At the same time the pilgrims were coming to Jerusalem for the Passover and there was much excitement over the ministry of Christ (v. 55). As the crowd was gathering in Jerusalem for the Passover feast, the pilgrims were wondering if Jesus would attend the feast even though his life was in danger. Popular opinion among the common people was in His favor. However, the religious authorities made it clear that any who saw Him must report it so they might arrest Him (vv. 56-57).

Application

Have you known of a Christian leader who felt threatened by another Christian who was successful? This was a big problem with the religious leaders in Jesus’ day and is still a problem today. Lord, help me to rejoice when another person is praised and I am not.

John 11:45-57 (English Standard Version)


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