John 7:47-50

47 Then the Pharisees answered them, “Are you also deceived? 

48 Have any of the rulers or the Pharisees believed in Him? 

49 But this crowd that does not know the law is accursed.”

50 Nicodemus (he who came to Jesus by night, being one of them) said to them,

“Will I Let Fear Keep Me From Speaking Up For Jesus?”

In the previous verses, the Pharisees wanted to know why the officers had not arrested Jesus, to which the officers replied, “No one ever spoke like this Man!” The Pharisees then proceeded to belittle the officers by saying, in today’s language, “Really, guys? Are you letting Him trick you, too? Don’t you see that no one who really matters believes in Him? This crowd doesn’t know the law as we do. We are the authority on the law. These people are cursed if they listen to this Man instead of us.” In verse 50, we see Nicodemus mentioned. We know that he came to see Jesus by night back in chapter 3, because he was curious about Him. He is about to speak up for Jesus in the next verse. He hasn’t proclaimed belief in Jesus, because verse 48 says that none of the rulers or Pharisees believed in Him. Of course, if any of them did secretly believe, they would not let it be known for fear of what would happen to them if they did. 

So what is the lesson from these verses? Well, here’s a question for myself. Do I let fear of what others will think about me or say about me keep me from sharing my faith in Jesus? Do I let fear of confrontation keep me from speaking up when the truth is being twisted? For example, when someone says they are saved but haven’t been baptized yet, should I let that slide or join the conversation? I know there’s a time and place for discussions like this. Sometimes, in the workplace, we can’t engage in conversations such as this, can we? But can we approach the person and say something like, “Hey, I heard you talking about being saved. I’m so glad you are getting to know Jesus. Could we talk more about this after work sometime?” Is this doable for me? They might not accept what I say. They might even get offended. But I planted a seed. Who knows? They might go home and look at those scriptures again. They might come back to me and want to study more. I won’t know until I try. I can’t stay in my box. I have to step out of it. Fear has always been a big problem for me. I have been so afraid of offending someone or saying the wrong thing. I really don’t want to be this way in the future. Everyone’s soul matters. I can’t be afraid to help others. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” This verse is one of my favorites. If I could only live by it! Will I remember it when I’m in the moment, and that fear starts to creep in? Lord, help me step out of my comfort zone and help others by speaking the truth in love. 

God means for everyone to learn what the Bible teaches about being saved. It only takes an open heart for Jesus and a willingness to put away what we’ve been taught in the past, and truly read what God’s Word says for ourselves… and then accept what it says and obey it. If I can help you in any way, I would love to! Are you walking in the light? Are you in Christ? Are you saved? If you aren’t, or if you’re not sure if you are, I’d love to help you. Are you a member of the Lord’s church, but are struggling spiritually in your walk with Christ? If you are… believe me, I’ve been there many times, and I’d love to help you. If you have any questions, please reach out. 

I love God’s Word. It challenges me to be better… to do more in His service. It is interesting and keeps me on the edge of my seat, wondering what will happen next. It gives me confidence and builds me up, and it brings me to my knees when my soul needs convicting! Thank you, Father, for the wonderful gift of Your Word!

God’s Plan of Salvation

Below is the plan God has outlined in His Word for humankind to receive His grace, which leads to salvation and an eternity with God in heaven. This plan is straight from the Bible. 

We have to hear His word. (Romans 10:17) 

Upon hearing the message of Jesus, we believe it. (Mark 16:16) 

Then, we confess Jesus’ name before men. (Matthew 10:32) 

Next, we repent of our sins. (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19) 

Finally, we are baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins.  (Acts 2:38, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:16, Romans 6:3-4, Acts 22:16, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:26-27) After baptism, God adds us to His church. (Acts 2:47)