Journal John 2 (all references are from the ESV; changes in punctuation are mine)
Scripture: “Now when he (Jesus) was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man—for he himself knew what was in man.” John 2:23-25
Observation: Ah, the little throwaway sentences found in the scriptures, the sentences that are easily sped read through. I can pick up some significant stuff when I slow down and read…
Analysis: I am like everyone else: I live for the “eye candy” in the Word of God. Plain, straight-forward, easily understood and memorized. Makes me feel good.
But, reading thoroughly, what comes before, what comes after: perhaps there are other things that the Holy Spirit wants me to put in my pocket for later. Like learning about the commutative property in math class, some of these references that doesn’t quite get the highlight pen, I can wonder “What do I need to know this for?”
I picked up on this section today because of the principle of “What is in the Heart of man.”
I see the reference that many believed in His name because of the sizzle and steak of “signs and wonders.” Jesus knew better than to get all excited about this response because He knew what the heart of man is all about.
And I should as well in my oh so limited way…
What did Jesus see with this group? Knowing their hearts didn’t stop the signs and wonders. Knowing their hearts didn’t bring Jesus to the point of saying, “What am I doing this for? I know how this is going to end up.”
Jesus soldiered right on through; did the Will of His Father; proclaimed the Kingdom of God—and didn’t entrust himself to any…
So, what is the point? Jesus is giving the example. Do what is right; proclaim the good news (whether to strangers or in the household of God); do not be discouraged for the results of the effort in obedience is completely and always in the Hand of God.
Hammer point: I am not a used car salesman. Live and express myself as an example of the Gospel and walk worthy of it at all times.
Prayer: Father, I so appreciate your care for me, so full of grace and mercy. Make me know that the Gospel isn’t a one-trick message. I need to remind and preach to myself what wonder and majesty caused you to save me; I need to remind and encourage my spouse and my family of your awesomeness; I want to express my gratefulness to the world around me of your salvation. AMEN.