Oh How He Loves Us

The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. And this was why the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because he was doing these things on the Sabbath. But Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. — John 5:15-18

So according to John, these three verses present the tension that escalates for the rest of Jesus's life. John regards this miracle as the tipping point because it presented a two-fold problem. First, that Jesus was a lawbreaker, which he was not. Second, that Jesus proclaimed to replace God, which he did not. So let's go ahead and explain both things. First, Jesus was not ignoring the law of the Sabbath but a law established by religious leaders — oral laws. And if anyone was breaking it, it was not Jesus but the lame man. Second, Jesus never claimed to be a replacement for God, which is what Jews were suggesting by the proclamation "equal with God." Jesus only and ever claimed to be sent by God, on a mission for God, doing the works of God, and bringing glory to God. That was it. He never claimed to take the place of God, which is precisely what the Jews wanted people to believe.

But let's set this aside for a bit.

Notice the act of cowardice by this lame man. This man has been healed, cleansed, and encouraged by Jesus, and the very next thing he does when he finally learns his name is go back to the authorities to sell him out. He is so concerned about their judgment he turns on the one who gave him everything.

And while I want to be quick to judge the sawdust in this man's eye, I also know there is a two-by-four in my own. How many times have I ducked, deflected, blamed, or explained when it comes to my belief, faith, and obedience to Jesus? How often have you turned your back on the one who gave you everything? And yet, in contrast, Jesus is resolute to the end. He knew what this lame man would do. He even knew that you and I would do the same. And still, he walked the path to the cross for you and me. Now that's love, fellas. Love that won't duck, deflect, blame, or explain but live all in to the end. Consider this today and worship the God who loves you.

ASK THIS: Do you see how he loves you?

DO THIS: Worship him by playing the song below. Give him four minutes of worship today.

PRAY THIS: Jesus, receive this song as my thanks for all you have done for me.

PLAY THIS: How He Loves.