No Sign

“The Pharisees…began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him…‘Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.’ And he left them, got into the boat again, and went to the other side.” Mark 8:11-13 ESV

Jesus had just performed an incredible miracle, providing food for thousands with just a few loaves and fish. As word spread about His miracles, some Pharisees arrived, desiring to test Him. The challenge they gave must have seemed logical: If He really was a miracle-worker, they felt He should be ready to prove that He had miracle-working power.

But Jesus refused to give them a sign. Why? Their motives were wrong. Moments later, He ordered His disciples to “watch out; beware of the leaven of the Pharisees” (v. 15). This “leaven” He would explain was hypocrisy (Luke 12:1).

In short, these Pharisees really were deceivers. They pretended to be sincere while really being dishonest. To look like friends while, in reality, being enemies. For such hypocrites, Jesus was not willing to give a sign.

Some today are like those Pharisees. Not sincerely interested in the Gospel. They can be skeptical about the Gospel because they don’t see the kind of “signs” that they want. Like the Pharisees who approached Jesus, they want evidence that meets their criteria. And when they see the kind of signs they want, they conclude that the Gospel message can’t be true.

But, when we think about Jesus’ ministry, we know that thousands experienced His miracle power. Healing and deliverance. He constantly was demonstrating His love and power for all with sincere hearts, with sincere beliefs and real needs.

In your life, remember that God’s miracle power still is available, for you and for all who come to Him with genuine needs. With sincere hearts. With faith and honesty. Without pretense or hypocrisy.

Prayer: Father, I commit these needs to You: ______. Thank You that nothing is impossible with You. Deliver me from hypocrisy. I trust in You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.