Unbelief Explained in John 12:37-43

In this passage, we see the Apostle John explain away a little bit of the mystery of the relationship between our human responsibility to repent and believe in Christ next to the Sovereignty of God over the process of our salvation. John appears to be addressing the persistent question: How did so many people in ancient Israel fail to believe in Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ, and Son of God? God’s Word explains that (1) it was not for a lack of evidence but (2) because of their hard hearts, and (3) the desire of many not to give up their place in society. The passage has helpful lessons for us as we share the Gospel among a similar people in which some will believe and many will not. The bulletin is posted here, and a video of our service is posted below.