Unspoken Sermons · Chapter
The Displeasure of Jesus explained
This chapter explores the righteous anger of Jesus, focusing on his displeasure with those who, after being healed, disobey his commands out of self-will and a desire for personal glory.
What happens
This chapter explores the righteous anger of Jesus, focusing on his displeasure with those who, after being healed, disobey his commands out of self-will and a desire for personal glory. It contrasts their disobedience with the deeper trust and obedience Jesus desires, emphasizing that his anger is a form of love that calls for repentance and growth.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Obedience
The chapter emphasizes that true faith requires obedience to Jesus's commands, not self-willed actions that seek personal glory or fame.
Critique of Religious Legalism
Jesus's displeasure with the healed men's disobedience critiques a religious mindset that values outward show and human praise over inner submission to God's will.
Love of Neighbor and Enemy
Jesus's anger is portrayed as a form of love that seeks the restoration and growth of the sinner, not punishment or revenge.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Jesus is portrayed as experiencing holy anger and displeasure when those he heals disobey his commands, prioritizing their own will over the Father's.
- Lazarus
Lazarus is called forth from the tomb by Jesus, serving as a witness to the Father's power and love, despite being better off in the unseen.
- Martha
Martha is one of the sisters whose lack of faith in the Father causes Jesus sorrow; she is comforted by Lazarus's return.
- Mary
Mary is the other sister whose grief and unbelief trouble Jesus; she is also comforted by Lazarus's resurrection.
- Peter
Peter is rebuked by Jesus as 'Satan' when he opposes the Father's will, illustrating the same kind of self-will that displeases Jesus.
- The Jews
The Jews observe Jesus's love for Lazarus but misunderstand the deeper purpose of the miracle, which is to reveal the Father.
Key passages
“I thank thee, father, for hearing me; and I say it, not as if I had had any doubt of thy hearing me, but that the people may understand that I am not doing this thing of myself, but as thy messenger.”
Jesus publicly thanks the Father to show that his actions are not his own but are done as the Father's messenger, ensuring the people understand the divine source of the miracle.
This highlights Jesus's desire to direct attention to the Father, not to himself.
“Lazarus, come forth.”
Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb, demonstrating his authority over death and his unity with the Father.
This command is a pivotal moment of revelation and comfort for Martha and Mary.
“Nevertheless, when the son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”
Jesus laments that even after his works, true faith in the Father remains rare among people.
This reflects Jesus's sorrow over the lack of trust in God, even among his followers.