Looking into these chapters of John become more heartbreaking as we approach the cross. Jesus, even though He knew the cup He had to drink from, still experienced human emotions. Surely rejection contributed immensely in the death to His heart. His rejection came from one of His own, through the representatives of His Father on the earth, and His own people.
One of His Own
The rejection of Jesus came through the betrayal of Judas, one of His own disciples. Although Jesus knew it was coming, He loved this man. He had called him, taught him, washed his feet, and shared the secrets of the kingdom with him. Still, as the battle intensified, this one, came into the garden, and kissed Jesus for the price of a burial field for strangers. Although he was remorseful, it could not be undone.
The Representatives of God on Earth
The rejection of Jesus also came through God’s representatives on earth. These were the ones His Father gave the Law, and all the promises. They were the go between between God and the Jewish people. They did not recognize Jesus as God’s son. Their plan all along was to be rid of Him. Time and again, He spoke the word before them, only to find them more and more determined to be rid of Him.
His Own People – The Jews
In addition, His own people rejected Him. These were His relatives, His neighbours, the kids He grew up with. When Pilate brought Him before the Jewish people, finding no fault in Him. His own people shouted, “Crucify Him,” and finally, “Do away with Him.”
These truths break the heart of those who call Jesus Lord. Allow the writer of Hebrews to comfort you in this, “Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same.” Further he writes, “For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.” And finally, “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” What a Mighty Captain to have walked this path to aid His own!
His rejection came from one of His own, through the representatives of His Father on the earth, and His own people.