John 7
Jesus brothers were at odds with him. They somehow didn't like Jesus hiding himself from the Jews. Did they know they wanted to kill him? If the brothers knew they did not seem to care for Jesus’ life.
Verses 2 through 13 show what a turmoil was around Jesus. Many were seeking his harm. Why would our Lord not come in power - - rather than this way: being hated by the rulers and despised by the very family he chose to come into? Why not just come in lightning and power and destroy all who oppose him and whip the rest into submission? I think it’s because, if he came that way, most would die immediately; many others would die a short while later, most would be miserable with stripes on their backs, and only a few would be somewhat content; even if walking on eggshells.
What does God want? His will was that all should not perish, but all should come to the knowledge of the truth. He came not to give stripes - - but by his stripes are we healed. This is an example of God's just love and loving kindness - - to come with meekness and an offer of eternal salvation.
This shows the range of confusion among the people; from resentment to acceptance. If he came back the same way in our age the same would happen again, except our Lord will not come back the same way again.
