A study of John 7:25-36 reveals the bold teaching of Jesus, the difference between human and spiritual perception, and Jesus’ final destination.
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals the bold teaching of Jesus.
Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ? (ESV, John 7:25-26)
When Jesus went to the feast of the tabernacle in Jerusalem, he kept a low profile until about halfway through the week. Then he appears in the Jewish temple and teaches. He commands the attention of a crowd, speaks boldly, and sparks controversary. And everyone wonders. Who is this guy anyway?
Surely he knew about the threats on his life. And yet he presents himself publicly as an open target. No security detail. Stepping in and out of the shadows. Chasing popularity or political power. But boldly declaring truth, answering questions, and confronting religious adversaries. And the people began to question. Had the religious leaders concluded Jesus was the Messiah after all?
If so, it added to their confusion. Because it challenged a popular Jewish belief: No one would know where the Messiah came from. And they all agreed this was not the case for Jesus.
But we know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.” (ESV, John 7:27)
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals the difference between human and spiritual perception.
So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, “You know me, and you know where I come from. But I have not come of my own accord. He who sent me is true, and him you do not know. I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me. (ESV, John 7:28-29)
But the idea no one would know where the Messiah came from wasn’t exactly true. Many prophecies identified him. Including these two important ones.
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. (ESV, Micah 5:2)
Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’ (ESV, Jeremiah 23:5-6)
Jesus’ lineage and birthplace
The people knew at least two important facts about the Messiah. He was a direct descendent of King David and born in the city of Bethlehem. What they meant by “no one will know where he comes from” is that the Messiah would appear mysteriously and suddenly, as if from nowhere. But people knew of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. And that he was raised in Nazareth and currently lived in Capernaum. So he did not conform to their popular belief.
But Jesus challenges their knowledge. And maybe is better paraphrased: So you think you know where I come from, huh? Well, guess again. Because the one who sent me is True. And I know him, but you don’t. In other words, it’s impossible to recognize Jesus as the Son of God through human perception. He is only truly seen through spiritual perception by exercising faith.
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals Jesus’ final destination.
Jesus then said, “I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” (ESV, John 7:33-34)
Jesus shares another spiritual truth. He will remain on earth a little while longer, and then return to the one who sent him in heaven. And they can’t follow him there. But the people still fail to see beyond human perception. And only think of his destination as somewhere on earth.
Does he intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks and teach the Greeks? What does he mean by saying, ‘You will seek me and you will not find me,’ and, ‘Where I am you cannot come’?” (ESV, John 35b-36)
So the people stretch their imagination as far as earthly possible. Perhaps Jesus plans to disappear in the dispersion?
What is the dispersion?
The Greek word for “dispersion” is diaspora, which means “scattering” or “dispersion.” It refers to the Jews who lived outside of the land of Israel, spread among the Gentiles and spoke Greek. It first occurred when the Assyrian (8 BC) and Babylonian (6 BC) empires invaded Israel and exiled them to other lands. And this dispersion continued later under Persian, Greek, and Roman rule as the Jews migrated throughout the ancient world. Perhaps, Jesus intended to go and teach among those people.
It all comes down to a decision.
Yet many of the people believed in him. They said, “When the Christ appears, will he do more signs than this man has done?” (ESV, John 7:31)
In the end every person decides. Is Jesus the Son of God or not? Because if so, his life, death, and resurrection change everything. But that change occurs one heart at a time. And many of his listeners took that step of faith and believed in him. Today, two thousand years later, many people are still believing in him too.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
Check out Philippians Bible Study For Individuals and Groups.
