Basic HTML Version
Chapter 20—“Except Ye See Signs and Wonders”
This chapter is based on
John 4:43-54
.
The Galileans who returned from the Passover brought back the
report of the wonderful works of Jesus. Many of the people lamented
the abuse of the temple, and the greed and arrogance of the priests.
They hoped that this Man, who had put the rulers to flight, might
be the looked-for Deliverer. It was reported that the prophet had
declared Himself to be the Messiah.
The news of Christ’s return to Cana soon spread throughout
Galilee. In Capernaum the tidings attracted the attention of a Jewish
nobleman who was an officer in the king’s service. A son of the
officer was suffering from what seemed to be an incurable disease.
When the father heard of Jesus, he determined to seek help from
Him. He hoped that a father’s prayers might awaken the sympathy
of the Great Physician.
On reaching Cana he pressed through a throng to the Saviour’s
presence. His faith faltered when he saw only a plainly dressed man,
dusty and worn with travel. Yet he secured an interview with Jesus,
told his errand, and besought the Saviour to accompany him to his
home.
Jesus knew that the father had, in his own mind, made conditions
concerning his belief in Him. Unless his petition should be granted,
he would not receive Him as the Messiah. While the officer waited in
an agony of suspense, Jesus said, “Unless ye see signs and wonders,
ye will not believe.”
The Saviour contrasted the petitioner’s questioning unbelief with
the simple faith of the Samaritans, who asked for no miracle or sign.
[125]
His word had a convincing power that reached their hearts. Christ
was pained that His own people should fail to hear the voice of God
speaking to them in His Son.
Yet, the nobleman had a degree of faith, for he had come to
ask what seemed to him the most precious of all blessings. Jesus
112