Scripture

They were deeply offended and refused to believe in in him.

Observation

Jesus returns to Nazareth with his disciples. On the Sabbath Jesus goes to the synagogue where he teaches. At first, people are amazed at his wisdom and power to perform miracles.

The amazement turns to scepticism when they realise that he is just a carpenter’s son. They become offended.

Jesus says, to them that a prophet is honoured everywhere, except in his own hometown. Because of their unbelief Jesus can not do any miracles there, except to lay hands on a few sick people to heal them.

Application

The response of the residents of Nazareth to Jesus’s ministry goes quickly from amazement to scepticism and then deep offence.

The speed of this change, as it is narrated seems to be unusually high. Perhaps there were demons seeking to sow unbelief and even violence in the hearts of the people he grew up amongst.

We all need to check our own hearts in this regard. How open am I to the works of the Lord right now? Am I sceptical about answers to prayer or the gifts of the Holy Spirit?

Even mature Christians can harbour feelings of unbelief or anger towards God. We don’t like to talk about these feelings and thoughts because they provoke guilt and shame in us.

If we allow these things to grow in our hearts, then can we can move from amazement at the gospel to scepticism and even deep offence.

Listen

Lord, thank you for this relationship that we have. I am amazed by the facts of your great love for me.

Keith. I have loved you, and all my people with an everlasting love from before the world began. I desire that every person would turn to me, let go of their sins and receive my love. It is sad, even tragic, that many people refuse to even listen to the gospel or allow my Spirit to whisper their name.

You are a channel of my grace. Keep on serving me and you will see many people saved, more than you can imagine.

Many hearts that are hard towards me now will soften and allow the seeds of the Gospel to take root in their lives and bear fruit.