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 PARTICULARS OF THE MIRACLE. Note — 1. The rapid reversals of feeling which all efforts in doing good demand. His former visit to Cana was to a festival; He came now to a scene of anxiety and affliction.. Human experience is very fitful and uncertain. Now the circumstances are joyous, now gloomy; and he who wants to do good must be prepared for both. 2. Pain and trouble are common to all ranks. Capernaum's great dignitary is harrowed by anxiety; his money, influence, friends, cannot save his boy, "Grief is a black camel that kneels at every man's door," 3. The value of Christianity. Sceptics say Christianity is a religion for the sorrowful only. We reply, There is surely room for one such religion in a world like this. 4. In His first reply Christ — (1) Rebuked a faith which rested on external evidences. (2) Showed that he cared very little for miracles as proofs of His Divine commission. 5. The nobleman's response teaches us directness in prayer. How much time is wasted in the formalities of devotion. 6. Such petitions as this the Lord always hears and answers. The last word of God's Son affords ground for implicit trust. The nobleman knew that nothing more was needed. 7. How much men owe to the unseen Providences of God. II. THE PARABLE OF FAITH. 1. There was intelligence. The nobleman — (1) Reasoned. (2) Inquired. (3) Agreed. 2. Next came assent. Sometimes this element of saving faith is called submission, sometimes surrender. 3. There came trust. Without a word he rested on the promise. He believed — (1) In Christ's evidences. (2) In Christ's willingness. (3) In Christ Himself. (C. S. Robinson, D. D.) 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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