John 7:1 - Homiletics

Our Lord's stay in Galilee.

Notwithstanding the discouragements of the last few days, he continued to reside in Galilee. "And after these things Jesus continued to abide in Galilee: for he would not abide in Judaea, because the Jews sought to kill him."

I. HE TOOK NEEDFUL PRECAUTION TO SAVE HIS LIFE .

1 . He could have put forth miraculous power for its preservation, but he practised that economy of miracle which is so manifest throughout his whole ministry.

2 . He refused to expose himself to premature risk at the hands of his Judaean enemies. They "sought to kill him." He acted upon the counsel he gave to his disciples, that when persecuted in one city they should flee to another. He would not decline risk when his hour was come, but meanwhile he used all prudence to avert danger.

II. HIS CONTINUED MINISTRY IN GALILEE .

1 . Though discouraged by the defection of so many disciples, he continues to minister in Galilee.

2 . His life was secure among the Galilaeans. The difference between the Galilaeans and the Jews was that, while the Jews were actively hostile, the Galilaeans were merely indifferent.