Jesus at Bethesda
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divine authority, might arise, who by prophesying smooth things, and
gratifying the vanity of the rich and unsanctified, might secure their
firm allegiance. These false prophets would lead their followers to
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eternal ruin.
Jesus declared that there was no necessity for him to accuse them
to the Father, for Moses, whom they professed to believe, had already
accused them. “For,” said he, “had ye believed Moses, ye would have
believed me; for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how
shall ye believe my words?” Jesus knew that the Jews were determined
to take his life, yet in this discourse he fully explained to them his
Sonship, the relation he bore to the Father and his equality with him.
This left them without an excuse for their blind opposition and insane
rage against the Saviour. But, though baffled in their designs, and
overawed by his divine eloquence and truth, the murderous hatred of
the priests and elders was not quenched. Fear seized them, for they
could not close their understanding to the convincing power which
attended the ministry of Christ. But they were so bound by the chains
of pride and arrogance that they rejected the evidence of his divine
power, resisted his appeals, and locked themselves in darkness.
They had signally failed to subvert the authority of Jesus, or to turn
from him the respect and attention of the people, many of whom were
powerfully affected, and deeply convicted, by his impressive discourse.
His mighty works had first arrested their notice and aroused their won-
der, and when his searching words disclosed his true character, they
were ready to acknowledge his divine authority. On the other hand,
his words had thrilled the hearts of the rulers with condemnation for
their course. He had pressed their guilt home upon their consciences,
yet this only made them more bitter against him, and they were fully
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determined to take his life. They sent messengers all over the country
to warn the people against Jesus, whom they denounced as an impostor.
Spies were sent to watch him and report what he said and did. The
precious Saviour was now most surely standing under the shadow of
the cross.
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