03.5 John – What was in

We have all been caught, from time to time, in the lure of “what is in”.  It may be the latest fashion, the latest food or fad.  It may be electronics, toys, tools.  It may be news.  It can also be people, events, what has been done or is just new and exciting.

At the Passover Feast, Jesus began to accumulate a following.  It was a following of the curious and hangers on.  Those interested in the works and not the man.

Works can be an interesting thing.  On one hand, James 2 tells us that faith without works is dead.  If we have faith, then we are compelled to live out that faith in our thoughts, words and deeds.  However, Hebrews 9:14 speaks of “acts that lead to death”, or as the KJV called them, “dead works”.  The works that are not done from a basis of faith in Jesus Christ.

In either scenario, it is not the works but the heart that is key.

The crowds followed Jesus because of His works and the power of His name.  They were following Him because “He was in.”  They followed the crowd.  The heard each others’ testimony and stories and followed along. They looked for entertainment and excitement and to see what happened next.  But it did not change their heart.

But Jesus sees “what’s in” differently.  John 2:25 tells us “He did not need man’s testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man.”  For Jesus, “what’s in” is what is in your heart.

My Answers:

11.
a.
The disciples believed that Jesus was the Messiah and thus He had power and authority.  The many believed He had power and authority because they saw the power and authority, they didn’t see the Messiah.

b.
Everywhere.  WII-FM.  “I’m not getting that much out of reading the bible, praying, going to church.”  That may be true for you but it doesn’t mean it is true for me.  I only believe what I can see.

12.
He knew their hearts.  When I submitted fully to Him in times of worship and especially in times of need.