From Galilee

Though many rejected Jesus because He was from Galilee, God often speaks through unexpected people and places—if we’re willing to listen.

“Surely the Christ is not coming from Galilee, is He? [ … ] You are not from Galilee as well, are you? Examine the Scriptures, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.”—John 7:41, 52 NASB

Many Judeans looked down on people from Galilee! They felt a smug superiority that extended back to the time of Joshua when areas of Galilee remained under the influence of native people. Later, non-Jewish Galilean influence intensified when the Jewish population went into exile, and the area had been under other political structures, heightening their differences.

Jesus faced this prejudice when He came to Jerusalem. Some had ears to hear and received His message, concluding that He was “the Prophet” (v. 40). But others rejected Him … because He came from Galilee.

To the chief priests and Pharisees, Jesus could not be the Messiah! Showing further prejudice, these leaders claimed that the crowd who received Him was “accursed” and unable to recognize God’s will (v. 49).

In response, Nicodemus asked his fellow leaders if they should not hear Jesus first before reaching a conclusion. But this view was rejected. Why? Because Jesus came from Galilee, and they were sure no prophet could come from there (v. 52).

Search your heart and mind. Do you have any biases that prevent you from hearing from God or receiving His Word? Are you open to the move of His Spirit or blinded by your assumptions? Ask God to speak to you. Let Him direct you into new territory, expand your thinking, and teach you new things.

Reflection Question: What assumptions might be keeping me from hearing God’s voice?