I know that you are Abraham’s descendants. Yet you are looking for a way to kill me, because you have no room for my word. I am telling you what I have seen in the Father’s presence, and you are doing what you have heard from your father.”
“Abraham is our father,” they answered.
“If you were Abraham’s children,” said Jesus, “then you would do what Abraham did. As it is, you are looking for a way to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. Abraham did not do such things. You are doing the works of your own father.”
“We are not illegitimate children,” they protested. “The only Father we have is God himself.” John 8:37-41
It’s interesting to see Jesus pushing back against his detractors. He’s putting them on the defensive, something they were probably not accustomed to because they were frequently intimidating others. Look no further than the beginning of this chapter as an example. He was trying to intimidate Jesus and the woman caught in adultery.
They were probably shocked by Jesus’ aggressive language, but for once they were the ones lashing back. Jesus didn’t talk this way often but when He did, it was with the leaders. Even as he began his ministry he is trying to look out for the people, whom he said were constantly being harassed.
Would you take the time to pray for your pastor today, the shepherd designated by God to provide spiritual leadership in your life. His burdens are often heavier than we’ll know. Then drop him a line (email, text, handwritten letter, etc. etc.) letting him know you’re praying for him.
And don’t forget an encouraging note to his wife too.