Scripture

But Jesus didn’t trust them because he knew human nature. No one needed to tell him what human nature was really like.

Observation

Jesus goes to Jerusalem for the Passover celebration. He sees the merchants selling animals for the sacrifices and the money changers. He makes a whip and chases the animals and the traders out of the Temple.

The disciples remember the Scripture that says, “Passion for your house consumes me.”

The leaders demand a sign that Jesus has done this under God’s authority. He tells them if they pull down the temple, he will rebuild it in three days. They don’t realise that he is talking about His body.

Application

Many people were claiming to trust in Jesus, but He didn’t trust them. He knew human nature.

People claim to be disicples of Jesus for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it is for social standing or to make business contacts. Sometimes it is out of a religious spirit.

There are many people who, to all outward appearances, are dedicated christians. They believe the gospel, and may even do many good works in the church. For some reason the head knowledge of the facts of the gospel does not translate to the heart. When pressure comes on, they don’t cope as we might expect, because the outward behaviour has changed but their heart has not changed.

When Jesus comes in He changes our heart. Our life is changed for ever from the inside out.

Nobody can live the christian life out of their own strength. We need the new heart and the new mind that only Jesus can give through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Lord, I thank you for not just forgiving my sins but for giving me a new heart. You are making every part of my life new. Thank you. Amen.