Reading Plan:
John 1:11-28

Our Thoughts:
“He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.” John 1:11.
What a heartbreaking statement! One of the first things that stands out in John’s mind as he recounts the life of Jesus, his savior, and friend, is that Jesus’ own people rejected and ostracized Him. John isn’t just talking about Jesus’ family and friends; He is talking about an entire nation! The nation of Israel as a whole rejected Jesus as the Son of God. Jesus of Nazareth was born to a Jewish family. He had all the right qualities and pedigree as any true Jewish man. His life fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies that promised God would send His Son as a Savior to His people.
So why would they reject Him? It wasn’t because he was loud, rude, or arrogant. It wasn’t because His message was full of lies or inconsistencies. They rejected Jesus because He did not match the ideals they had already painted for themselves. The people of Israel wanted a military Savior who would overthrow the Roman empire and establish a worldly kingdom to reign. Since that wasn’t Jesus, they refused Him.
Their preconceived beliefs did not match the reality in front of them, and they didn’t know what to do. Instead of letting truth shape their beliefs, they did everything possible to silence the voices that confronted and challenged their normal. Everything, even to the point of murder.
These people had every opportunity in front of them. They knew the prophecies and promises, and Jesus fulfilled them all. They listened to His life-changing messages and profound understanding of scripture. His knowledge and beliefs were tested without even a stumble. They watched His miracles unfold countless times. Their problem wasn’t just unbelief, but it was refusal. Refusal to believe that they could be wrong. Pride ultimately led to their rejection of Jesus.
Here is the good news, “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12. Belief in Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of the world opens wide the door for you to be considered a son or daughter of God the Father. The Creator and Sustainer of the universe looks at you as His child, fully loved and seen. That idea seems completely illogical to the world around us. Instead of letting what the world around you says is true shape your belief in Jesus, let your faith in Jesus shape what you call true.

More Questions:
Have you ever had to admit that you were wrong about something? Have you ever had to correct someone’s way of thinking?
Does what you believe about Jesus conform to the ideals of the world around you or challenge the ideals of the world around you?

Prayer:
Lord, I receive Your truth today. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Light. Thank you for not only calling me a child but loving me as one. Help me to live by your truth in a world of lies.

Author: Kyle Warren