Holy Boldness

involves timing and finesse. Jacob’s favorite son, Joseph, told his dreams to his brothers and they got really angry and sold him into slavery. It takes a lot of courage to fully declare one’s identity in the presence of fam ily. This is precisely what Jesus did. He decreed His intention to fulfill His personal destiny according to the word of God in front of family and friends. And all spoke well of him and marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” (v. 22) At first, the people were impressed by His words and charmed by His ability to communicate. He was a hometown boy whose parents were known and there was a sense of pride in the event. But then a subtle shift came as Jesus did not meet local expectations. The statement among the people, “Is this not Joseph’s son?” was an indication of the stumbling block of familiarity. One of the greatest hindrances for anyone seeking to fulfill the will of God is overcoming the expectations and assumptions of those who are close friends and family. This is why many move away from home to pursue their calling. The hindrance of familiarity must be overcome through the fear of the Lord. Jesus dialog with the people after His announcement is an example of this very thing. Jesus had developed a reputation regionally but when He went home, as is typical, His reputation was based on who He was before He was commissioned by the Spirit. Going home has its own unique chal lenges. And he said to them, “Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, ‘Physician, heal yourself.’ What we have heard you did at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well.” (4:23) Jesus stated a basic principle: “…no prophet is without honor except around his hometown.” (Matt. 13:57) That proved to be true in His specific case. Jesus found curiosity and presumption but no genuine faith. As Jesus traveled He responded to genuine need as occasion arose but never to satisfy curiosity or entertain. No did He anywhere to gain approval or raise funds. He went home to announce His intentions, to make a statement. He was not looking for approval to advance His mission. He was not subject to their opinion but to the word of God within Him. Jesus felt the expectations and called them out but He refused to submit to them. Instead, Jesus began to challenge them. The Confrontation

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