Get Real November 23 Devotional
November 23, 2024
JOHN 7:50-52 | Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus before, and who was one of them, asked, “Our law does not judge people without first giving them a hearing to find out what they are doing, does it?” They replied, “Surely you are not also from Galilee, are you? Search and you will see that no prophet is to arise from Galilee.”
Nicodemus was a seeker—but a cautious one. He came to Jesus by night, secretly. He was not ready for public knowledge of his interest, let alone public commitment.
In today’s passage he defends Jesus, despite the leaders hard stance that he is illegitimate and worthy of arrest. But he does so carefully, even neutrally, suggesting that their condemnation is precipitous, seeing as it preceded proper examination.
Despite his caution, however, even this mild defense and fair minded question is met with an angry and ad hominem attack. “You too must be a Galilean, if you support such an imposter—and we know nothing good comes from Galilee.”
Have you ever defended Jesus?
Have you ever been criticized for taking his side?
