“The Jews who heard these words were again divided. 20 Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?” 21 But others said, “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” John 10.19-20
Only two choices are given to human beings regarding Jesus Christ: 1) he is a raging lunatic and is demon-possessed or 2) he is God in the flesh and Savior of the world.
The first century crowd was unsettled in their opinion of Jesus. Some saw his miracles and asked how could he be possessed by demons if he opens the eyes of the blind. Others thought he was demon-possessed and raving mad. These people said to the others, “Why listen to him?”
The reason Jesus brings such polarizing opinions is because he is who he said he was. And being the Messiah, he is a direct threat to the devil. There is a battle for the souls of all people. Satan seeks to kills, steal and destroy but Jesus comes to offer life, love and forgiveness of sins. Jesus is polarizing because he is who he said he was. Only Jesus presents truth that brings about the best and the worst in people.
Even in the church you see polarizing sides on what should be clear biblical issues. Some believe God’s word and follow it as the truth that it is –while others (also those inside the church) chose to allow some sins (homosexuality, abortion, gay marriage) and call them godly. But to quote Duck Dynasty’s Phil Robertson, “You have to believe all of the Bible or none of it.”
Christians are persecuted more than any other religious group, save for the Jews. Throughout history, it is people who follow Jesus, who are born again, who believe and obey his word that face not only the greatest persecution but also the greatest blessings.
In this passage, we see two opposing sides. One side rejects Jesus and the other reveres him.
Which will you be?
“O Lord God, you are gracious. Thank you for loving me, for allowing me to walk in grace and for helping me see the truth of your word. Come now, Holy Spirit, fall upon me, my family and my work. Bless everything around me as a testimony to your provision and the power of the cross. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen