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By Mike Caton

John 11:46, But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.

This verse is the answer to the previous verse, where many of them believed in Jesus. When we think about it, we know that everyone has a different reaction to the gospel; some believe and put their faith in Jesus, some reject what they have heard, and there are limitless places in the spectrum for others to fall. It is difficult to predict what reaction any one person will have. But still, I cannot help but wonder why certain people react in certain ways.

Were these people already against Jesus? Did they have something against him, maybe like the religious leaders (and maybe some of these folks were Pharisees themselves), did they want Jesus to be something he was not. Some wanted Jesus to toe the line they had already established, to go through the proper channels with his teaching and so forth. Others wanted a political Messiah, one who would overthrow the Romans and restore Israel to the glory days of King David. Others probably just wanted another free meal of bread and fish. Some probably didn’t really care one way or the other. But for whatever reason, they went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.

Think about this for a moment. What are you telling about Jesus? That’s a pretty simple question. Some are telling the good news, sharing the amazing things God has done in and through their lives. Others are complaining about Jesus, saying negative things about Christ, his church, and his people. But I suspect far more are simply not saying anything. Maybe, in their minds, if they don’t talk about it, don’t think about it, Jesus will simply go away and leave them alone. That is a foolish thought, but people often think that way. So, what are you telling about Jesus?

Father, help me speak up with the good news. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Mike Caton is the preacher at Mount Olive Church of Christ in Belhaven. He volunteers at the Ponzer Fire Department and works part time with Hyde County EMS. If you would like to receive daily devotions in your inbox, email mikecaton@centurylink.net.

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