This chapter includes ‘the triumphal entry’ (celebrated as Palm Sunday), more plots to kill Jesus and even Lazarus (whom Jesus raised from the dead), predictions of Jesus’ death / resurrection / ascension, and more commentaries about the purposes of Jesus’ ministry and belief / disbelief in Him.
“Though he had done so many signs before them, they still did not believe in him, so that the word spoken by… Isaiah might be fulfilled… ‘He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them.’… Nevertheless, many… of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it… for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God.” (v37-38, 40, 42-43 abr)
The first theme that jumps out at me is this idea that God has “blinded people’s eyes” and “hardened their hearts”. Despite the possible connotations of the English translation, God is not maliciously stopping people from knowing Him. What’s really happening, is when people see God and His works, they are voluntarily turning a blind eye and hardening their own hearts against Him. Jesus died for the sin of all people for all time – unfortunately, some people willingly decline this most loving gift of salvation.
The second theme is this concept of hidden allegiance to God. It says many officials believed in Jesus, but kept it secret, because they didn’t want others to know (they could be excommunicated, banished, maybe even killed). We still have this today – thousands of believers in certain countries are actively persecuted by their authorities, and must worship in secret or face prison / execution.
I suggest we make a habit of praying for those who decline God’s gracious gifts, and those who are persecuted for accepting Jesus’ merciful sacrifice.
Father God, our Merciful Lord and Gracious Protector, You have created us to be in relationship with You for Your honor and glory. This broken world makes that difficult, however, causing us to have hard hearts or be forced into secret devotion. If the lord of this world can’t convert us, he and his followers will try to keep us quiet. Thank you for Your strong protection for those being persecuted, keeping their spirits from harm. Thank You for opening the eyes of the blind and softening their hearts so they may choose to follow You. Thank you for helping us be catalysts for Your glory, honor and praise, light and salt unto the world. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training