THE LIFE OF CHRIST - MINISTRY OF WITHDRAWALS
Fourth Withdrawal
-Jesus’ Brothers Advise Him to Go to Judea
-John 7:2-9
-Jesus’ brothers urged Him to attend the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles in Judea.
-“…[A]fter his six months’ retirement, Jesus prepared to appear once more in Judea. The
Feast of Tabernacles began on the 15th day of the month Tisri, which answers to our
September-October and consequently came six months after and six months before the
Passover. It was the most joyous of the two great feasts, and not only commemorated the
time when Israel dwelt in the wilderness in tents, but also celebrated the harvest home. It
was, therefore, a thanksgiving both for permanent abodes and for the year’s crops”
(McGarvey/Pendleton, pg 440).
-Even though Jesus’ brothers were aware of His “works” (vs 3), the “if” in vs 4 clearly indicates
their doubt and vs 5 plainly states that “…even his own brothers did not believe in him” (NIV).
It seems that they couldn’t understand why He wasn’t seeking the attention and glory of men.
In this we can see their worldly mindset. However, over time they would become believers (see
Acts 1:14).
-It seems that the strongest persecution often times comes from a Christian’s own family. If
that is the case for you, draw strength and comfort from the fact that Jesus relates to your
hardship. He faced those same persecutions. Remain faithful to Him and prayerful for your
family. Through your stedfastness, you may eventually win them over to Christ.
-Jesus’ brothers wanted Him to show Himself to the world. In response to their request, Jesus
informed them that His time was not yet come. It was not yet time for Him to fully reveal
Himself through the crucifixion of the cross. The brothers, following the world rather than
exposing the sins within it, could freely go to the Feast of Tabernacles. So, they headed toward
Jerusalem while Jesus remained in Galilee.