Tuesday 14 July 2026
- Bible Book:
- John
"Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” (v. 24)
Background
Yesterday we read that Jesus opted to go secretly to Jerusalem to the Feast of the Tabernacles rather than going with his brothers.
Today we read that Jesus half-way through the celebrations associated with the Feast of Tabernacles abandoned being there in secret and spoke publicly. The crowd marvelled at his profound scriptural insight. However, because he had no formal rabbinical training, they questioned his authority. In response Jesus says his message is God-given and anyone seeking to do what God wants will recognise that. The crowd say they are not seeking his death, but Jesus then questions them about why they are so hostile to him. He refers to the outspoken criticism he has faced for healing a man on the sabbath during his previous visit to Jerusalem. The account of that healing is in John 5:1-18. The authorities claimed Jesus had broken the law not only by healing a lame man but by encouraging the man then to carry away his sleeping mat – an action judged to constitute 'work'. Jesus points out the hypocrisy of such an approach when the religious authorities themselves are prepared to break the aabbath rule if they judge that is what God wants.
He uses as an example that the Mosaic Law stated that circumcision should occur on the eighth day after birth – even if that day was the sabbath. Observing this rule about circumcision was judged more important than observing the 'no work on the sabbath' rule because circumcision dated back to the time of Abraham. It was part of the covenant God had made with the Jews to make them his chosen people. Jesus says what the law demands should therefore not always be interpreted rigidly. People should recognise what the purpose of the law is: to restore the broken relationship between God and his people.
To Ponder:
- What does this passage have to say to us about judging what is right by long-standing cultural rules?
- Do I make snap judgments about people or situations based on superficial details rather than on the wider picture of what may be true?
- When people question my faith or my motives, do I respond with anger or with an explanation for my actions?
Prayer
Lord, deliver me from judging by appearances or putting rules before life-enhancing mercy and love. Instead, grant me the grace to judge what is right, walking in your righteousness, love and light. Amen.
Bible notes author: Gary Best
Gary was headmaster of Kingswood School from 1987 to 2008 and volunteer warden of the New Room in Bristol from 2009 to 2019. He has published over 20 books, including The Christian Alphabet, a study book for home groups.