John 8:58-59

“Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.’ So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple” (John 8:58-59).

Question:

What does it mean in this scripture that “Jesus hid himself,” and is there any spiritual significance to this?

Comment:

Interesting question. I assume you’re thinking that as the full expression of the Christ, Jesus would be impervious to stones and capable of deflecting any attack. If his understanding of the Presence and Power of God allowed him to heal and/or feed thousands, and to walk on water, surely a few stones need not send him running.

The answer, I think, lies in the temptation in the wilderness that begins Jesus’ earthly ministry. All three temptations suggest ways he could use the spiritual Power he has come to recognize and embody for personal gain—for wealth, fame, and power. He resists those temptations, choosing instead to share his understanding with others and use his power to help others find the same power within themselves. Therefore, he would not find it appropriate to ‘show off’ by using his power for personal purposes. He can only accomplish his ministry by living within the human illusions of limitation we hold in collective consciousness. So rather than lash out, he removes himself from danger and continues his ministry elsewhere.

Blessings!

Rev. Ed