John 7:24

"If a boy receives circumcision on the Sabbath, that the law of Moses may not be broken, are you angry with me because I made a man completely healthy on the Sabbath?"

Key Reflection

John 7:24 challenges the Pharisees' rigid interpretation of the law by pointing out their inconsistency. The original audience, familiar with the strict Sabbath laws, would understand that receiving circumcision was a minor surgical procedure traditionally postponed to avoid breaking the Sabbath commandment. Jesus, however, performed healing work on the Sabbath, which they deemed prohibited. By asking if they were angry over his healing, Jesus highlights the hypocrisy of their selective adherence to the law, suggesting that true faith should allow for compassionate action even on holy days.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 24. Judge not according to the appearance. Not as a thing first offers itself to you, without reflection or candour. In appearance, to circumcise a child on the Sabbath might be a violation of the law; yet you do it, and it is right. So, to appearance, it might be a violation of the Sabbath to heal a man, yet it is right to do works of necessity and mercy. Judge righteous judgment. Candidly; looking at the law, and inquiring what its spirit really requires. {t} "judge" De 1:16,17 __________________________________________________________________

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