Power Source
Matthew 13:53-58
Is unbelief a powerful force?
Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash
When Jesus had finished these parables, he left that place. He came to his hometown and began to teach the people in their synagogue, so that they were astounded and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these deeds of power? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.” And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief. - Matt. 13:53-58
Over the years, I have reflected on this reading several times, and each time I run into the same issue.
Jesus did not do any deeds of power in his hometown, because the people didn’t believe.
At first, it sounds like he didn’t want to do any signs. That would mean he was simply disgusted with them for not believing in him, one of their own who did good.
But it could also be something else.
It made me think. What if our belief is what makes acts of power possible?
Now, you can say that is not what is happening here, and I can accept that, but the thought intrigues me. If our faith is instrumental in the healing process, everything changes.
Jesus told people that it was their faith that made them well. Their faith, not his actions, and remember the woman who touched his cloak? He felt the power drain from him.
It is a fascinating concept, our ability to limit God’s power to help us, because of our free will. God gave us the ability to say no.
We can reject God. And that could be what happened to Jesus in his hometown.
The thought that we are more powerful than Jesus sounds ridiculous. But it is something to consider when we need God’s help.
How much faith do we have? Do we secretly believe God will not help us?
Will our actions and thoughts lead God away?
Is our free will that strong?
I would like to think that God can penetrate any barrier we put up between us and Him, and I am sure He can. But will He?
More to come...