FEAR OF PEOPLE'S OPINION

Read: LUKE 22:1-6

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Bible in a year: Deuteronomy 30-31

The term "conspiracy" emerged when many strange cases were experienced by innocent people, accused, and imprisoned. Such a conspiracy took place among the Pharisees and the experts of the law. They intended to prosecute Jesus in order to maintain their influence as respected religious leaders. However, because of fear of the public's reaction, they sought ways to avoid negative public opinion. The momentum came through Judas Iscariot, who declared his willingness to hand over Jesus.

Perhaps they did not realize that they were opposing God. Through cunning ways, through vile slanders and by using money to Judas and threats to Pilate. Pilate finally gave in because of fear of people's opinion. This could have an impact on his position. Yet, Pilate had also been warned by the Lord through his wife's dream (Matt. 27:19). If Pilate feared the Pharisees, the Pharisees feared the public's opinion. Their fear of humans surpassed their fear of God.

When we are faced with situations to defend the truth, we also tend to give in to please people. At this point, our loyalty to the Lord is tested. Can we speak like the Apostle Peter, "Decide for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God" (Acts 4:19). Peter said this when he and John were threatened to no longer proclaim the resurrection of Christ. --HEM/www.renunganharian.net

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IN SITUATIONS THAT REQUIRE US TO DEFEND THE TRUTH, WE MUST FEAR GOD AND NOT MAN.

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