53-54That clinched it. Not only he but his entire household believed. This was now the second sign Jesus gave after having come from Judea into Galilee. (The Message)
Chapter 4 in John has been focused upon how and why people believe in Jesus. First it was the women at the well who believed because Jesus hold her everything about herself. Then it was the people of the women's village who first saw the change in the woman and then heard Jesus for themselves and believed. Now it is an official in the King's court who believes.
The story of the official doesn't quite give us enough information though. We are left wondering did he believe when Jesus told him that his son would live or did he believe when he went home and found that Jesus's words were true? It is clear that those in his household believed because of the boys recovery but it isn't quite so clear about the official himself. It could be that the answer is yes and yes.
Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:
- When the official turned to go home which do you think was more prevalent in his mind? Hope that Jesus words were true or fear that his words would turn out to be wrong?
- Do you think the son was healed because of the father's faith in Jesus or because Jesus decided that this was a good opportunity to show what God's power could do?
- What kind of miracles do you look for in your daily life?
- How would you respond if Jesus suddenly healed someone that you loved dearly?
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