John 4:46-54 So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman… I. THE MIRACLE. 1. The petitioner. A person of distinction; perhaps Chuza, Herod's steward. Now in affliction. Seeks Jesus, the Divine Physician. 2. The application. Shows affection for child, and respect to our Lord; also great earnestness, A sense of need inspires utterance. 3. The reply. The first part of it evidently conveyed rebuke. Jesus said unto him, "Except ye" — not only you individually, but all who resemble you — "Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe." You are one of those who will not admit who and what I am, unless you see Me work a miracle. II. ITS EFFECTS. 1. See them, in the first place, on the nobleman: He "believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way," convinced that his application had not been made in vain, and that his son would live. 2. The narrative relates the effect of the miracle, not only on the nobleman himself, but also on his household, "his whole house believed." Their hearts were gained to the Lord Christ as well as his. Application: 1. What are we doing for our children? Many are the anxieties and pains which parents endure on account of their children. Can it be said of us, as of King Asa, that in our affliction we seek not to the Lord but to the physicians. Alas I we are prone to look to second causes, and to neglect the first Great Cause of life and health and everything! 2. What are we doing in our affliction? It should make us serious. It should lead us to Christ. It should subdue prejudice. It should show us the value of Christ's power and grace. 3. How have we requited the Lord's mercies? We have influence. Have we exerted it to bring others to believe in Christ, and to worship and serve Him? (M. Gibbs.) Parallel Verses KJV: So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. |
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