Title: God Never Arrives Late
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John 11:45–57
Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him, but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all. Nor do you understand that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, not that the whole nation should perish.” He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but also to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad. So from that day on they made plans to put him to death.
Jesus therefore no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there to the region near the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim, and there he stayed with the disciples.
Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and many went up from the country to Jerusalem before the Passover to purify themselves. They were looking for Jesus and saying to one another as they stood in the temple, “What do you think? That he will not come to the feast at all?” Now the chief priests and the Pharisees had given orders that if anyone knew where he was, he should let them know, so that they might arrest him. (ESV)
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Jed Gillis' sermon on John 11:45-57 explores the profound truth that God is never late, even in the direst situations. The passage describes the aftermath of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, which led many Jews to believe in Him. However, some reported to the Pharisees, prompting a council meeting where Caiaphas, the high priest, suggested that it was better for one man (Jesus) to die than for the whole nation to perish. Unbeknownst to Caiaphas, his words were a divine prophecy indicating Jesus' sacrificial death for humanity's salvation.
Gillis emphasizes that God orchestrates events perfectly according to His divine plan. The Pharisees' fear of losing their power and their plot to kill Jesus reveal their high regard for human power and their misplaced priorities. In contrast, God's plan involved Jesus' death and resurrection to display His glory and gather His scattered children into one family.
The sermon highlights four key applications:
1. **Crisis**: Trust that God never arrives late; He's always on time.
2. **Sin and Guilt**: Find relief in knowing Jesus died as a substitute for our sins.
3. **Doubt**: Have confidence in God's promises despite circumstances.
4. **Feeling Unloved**: Remember that Jesus knew you by name and died for you out of love.
Gillis encourages believers to see beyond self-help solutions and recognize the transformative power of God's Word in revealing His glory. This understanding helps Christians navigate crises, overcome guilt, trust in God's promises, and feel assured of His love. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to worship God wholeheartedly, acknowledging His perfect timing and unwavering love.
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Berean Bible Church is a non-denominational church in East Knoxville, TN. We are grounded in the Word, celebrating the transformative power of the Gospel. Our community thrives on worship and mutual encouragement, fostering deep connections among members. Committed to our mission, we reach out with compassion and hope, reflecting God's glory throughout our city and beyond.
Learn more at berean.church.
