So That You May Believe and Have Life – The Gospel of John
Part 21 – “Trusting God’s Timing, Methods, and Will”
John 7:1–24
As we continue our study in the Gospel of John, we encounter a moment in Jesus’ life that invites us to reflect on trusting God’s timing, trusting His methods, and obeying His will—even when we don’t fully understand the why or when.
John 7:1–9
Jesus makes it clear that His time had not yet come to die for the sins of the world.
He would not act outside the divine timetable set by His Father—even when pressured by others to go ahead of schedule. His restraint is not weakness, but trust in the Father’s plan.
When Jesus did lay down His life—for you and for me—it was at the exact moment God had determined.
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His sacrifice made it possible for us to experience God’s forgiveness,
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And to receive the promise of relationship with God—both now and forever.
This would happen during the next major feast, the following spring, at the Festival of Passover—and there was a reason for that…
God’s methods and timing always serve a purpose far greater than we may see in the moment.
John 7:10–24
Jesus eventually goes to the Festival of Shelters (also called Booths or Tabernacles) in secret.
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He faces confusion, criticism, and opposition,
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Yet He speaks boldly, calling people to judge rightly and not by appearances.
Jesus shows us how to navigate seasons of pressure and opposition—by walking in obedience and trusting the Father’s leading.
To be like Jesus means learning to:
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Trust God’s timing when we’re tempted to rush ahead,
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Trust God’s methods when they don’t look like our own, and
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Obey God’s will even when it’s costly or unclear.
Taking It Home
We encourage you to reflect on this message throughout the week.
These questions are designed for personal reflection or for use in conversation with family, friends, your mentor, small group, or spouse.
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What stood out to you in these passages from the Bible? From the message?
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What is difficult to understand or accept in these passages or the message?
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What is God revealing about Himself, people, or you through these scriptures and the message?
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Are there examples to follow, commands to obey, or promises to hold onto?
