John 7:20

The people answered, and sayd, Thou hast a deuill: Who goeth about to kill thee? John 7:20 (KJV)

In the Gospel of John this verse occurs while Jesus is in Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles, teaching in the temple and engaging in dialogue with the crowd. The religious leaders are divided over His identity, and the people themselves are voicing their opinions.

The people’s reply follows Jesus’ previous remark (John 7:19) about Moses giving the law that they do not keep. Rather than acknowledging the truth of His charge, they accuse Him of having a devil, a reaction that reveals their inability to comprehend or accept His authority and message.

Such an accusation demonstrates the broader pattern of opposition that Jesus repeatedly faced. Throughout the Gospels, many who heard Him rejected His claims because they could not recognize His divine nature and mission.

Jesus’ statement in the preceding verse was intended to expose the crowd’s hypocrisy and their failure to obey the law of Moses. His purpose was to bring spiritual transformation and to guide people toward genuine obedience to God’s commands. Even as the crowd denounced Him, He continued to teach and reveal truth.

The hostile response also highlights the people’s spiritual blindness. They were unable to see the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus or to discern the divine wisdom of His teaching. Their failure underscores the need for spiritual discernment and an openness to receive truth.

When we consider this passage today, it challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we approach Jesus’ teachings with humility, or do we reject them because of preconceived notions or misunderstandings? The verse urges us to seek the illumination of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to open our minds and hearts to God’s Word.

In conclusion, John 7:20 captures the misunderstanding and opposition Jesus endured during His earthly ministry. It calls believers to receive His teachings with open, humble hearts, pursuing spiritual discernment. By studying Scripture and relying on the Holy Spirit, we can deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission and align our lives with His teachings.