Seeking Jesus First - April 2, 2026
“Division Because of Him” Don't straddle the fence!
Please Read John 7:40–52 (NKJV)
Reflection
As Jesus continued to teach in the Temple during the Feast of Tabernacles, the people became deeply divided because of Him. Some declared, “This is truly the Prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” Still others objected, “Will the Christ come out of Galilee?” The crowd was split over His identity.
The officers sent by the chief priests and Pharisees returned empty-handed. When asked why they had not arrested Jesus, they replied, “No man ever spoke like this Man!” Even the Temple guards were moved by His words.
The religious leaders were furious. They mocked the crowd and the officers, saying, “Are you also deceived? Have any of the rulers or the Pharisees believed in Him?” They were convinced that only the ignorant and untaught could possibly follow Jesus.
Then Nicodemus — the same man who had come to Jesus by night earlier — spoke up with courage: “Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?” His question was met with scorn: “Are you also from Galilee? Search and look, for no prophet has arisen out of Galilee.”
Division because of Jesus is not new — it has existed from the very beginning of His ministry. Some see Him as the Prophet, some as the Christ, and some as a threat to their system. Jesus does not come to bring superficial unity. He comes to reveal hearts. His presence and His words always force a decision: Will we believe, or will we reject?
In the Kingdom life, we must be prepared for division. When we stand with Jesus and His Word, some will walk away, some will criticize, and some will mock. But like Nicodemus, we are called to speak truth even when it costs us favor with the crowd. True discipleship is not about pleasing men — it is about standing with the One who is the Truth, even when it creates tension.
Application
Today, ask yourself honestly: Where is Jesus causing division in my life or relationships? Is there any area where I am tempted to stay silent or compromise to avoid conflict? Renew your mind with this truth: following Jesus will sometimes divide us from the opinions of others. Choose today to stand with Him even if it means standing alone. Speak truth with love and courage when the opportunity arises. Let your quiet obedience and bold faith become a testimony that points others to the Christ who divides in order to save.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus is worth every division He causes in our lives. Thank You for the courage of Nicodemus and for every heart that chooses to stand with Your Son. Forgive us when we shrink back from division or seek the approval of men more than Your approval. Renew our minds today to follow Jesus even when it costs us. Give us grace to speak truth in love and to stand firm when others turn away. Let our lives reflect unwavering loyalty to the One who is the Christ. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.