3-31-15 Refusing to Believe

37Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him. 38This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet:

“Lord, who has believed our message

and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”^h

39For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere:

40“He has blinded their eyes

and hardened their hearts,

so they can neither see with their eyes,

nor understand with their hearts,

nor turn—and I would heal them.”ⁱ

41Isaiah said this because he saw Jesus’ glory and spoke about him.

42Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly acknowledge their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; 43for they loved human praise more than praise from God. (John 12)

Thoughts: Some think that if they have enough evidence, they would believe.  Similarly, some Christians believe that if they could argue or debate better or present just a little more evidence those they hope would believe actually would.  This passage is a reminder that evidence is not the only thing that counts.  Some saw many miracles but would not believe, but would continually seek an explanation.  Just as there are some who still believe that man didn't go to the moon- but think the whole thing was a staged event in a Hollywood basement, some would rather make up other explanations.
    This passage says something else- God does not open everyone's eyes (vs. 40).  It is the Spirit who gives faith.
     Yet others believed, but squelched that belief out of a desire for the praise and riches of this world.  Both unbelief of the evidence and hiding the belief are evidence of human pride above love for God.  True belief comes with a deep love for God that is not hidden or silenced. 

Prayer: May my love for you overwhelm my eyes and my pride, O Lord.  Help me to see clearly, love thee more dearly and follow thee more nearly day by day.