The picture was becoming clear to the Pharisees that Jesus had gained a following much larger than that of John the Baptist, the wandering prophet. Now He could see that the Pharisees were beginning to plot against Him. 2 This was because His disciples were busy ritually cleansing many new disciples through baptism,[a] 3 He chose to leave Judea where most Pharisees lived and return to a safer location in Galilee. 4 This was a trip that would take them through Samaria John 6:1-4
John is still baptizing for repentance of sins and now Jesus and His disciples are also baptizing. Seems Jesus and his disciples are baptizing more followers than John. The Jewish leaders, always trying to make trouble for Jesus, chose to introduce the idea of competition and jealousy. Instead of fighting this idea and setting things straight, Jesus chose to continue His ministry of salvation Samaria.
This reminded me of what Bob Goff, author of “Love Does” said about this issue, “Don’t argue of fight about your faith, instead walk away in humility and confidence and let God handle your challengers.” Sometimes we feel driven to prove we are right, innocent, well-intentioned and justified in our actions, especially for the cause of the Kingdom. Maybe it’s time we let Jesus right the wrongs and fight the battles as we move on in obedience to Him.
Jesus, once again you are asking us to surrender our rights, even when we are right! This seems impossible in our human strength. Just another area for us listen, learn, and obey, in faith and confidence. Another area to release our people-pleasing desires, our competitive nature, and our need to control. Wouldn’t it be much easier to choose the Jesus way, to humbly excuse ourselves and move on leaving them to argue among themselves.
Thank You, Jesus for another example of how we are to navigate in this sinful world. Help us to surrender our pride and stay focused on You and Your kingdom purposes.
Journey with Joyce 