Sermon Breakdown

1. The sermon begins by introducing the topic of unbelief and how it is portrayed in John 7:8-13. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says these verses show unbelief in a dramatic and striking form, especially in how Jesus' own brothers react to him.

2. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says the Gospels were written to show us Jesus and how people reacted to him. They show the "tragedy" of how Jesus came to his own but his own did not receive him.

3. Dr. Lloyd-Jones focuses on Jesus' loneliness and isolation in verses 8-10. Jesus knew he was the Son of God and the Messiah, which set him apart. He was also misunderstood, unable to fully share his mission with others. He had no place to call home.

4. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says Jesus showed wisdom in how he avoided confrontation and danger. He did not go openly to the feast but secretly. He did not rush into trouble.

5. Dr. Lloyd-Jones highlights Jesus' humility. He did not seek popularity or notoriety. He obeyed the Law and went to the feast even though he was above the Law. He submitted to the will of the Father.

6. Dr. Lloyd-Jones notes Jesus' quiet confidence in his mission. He knew the plan of God and did things in God's timing. There was no hurry or excitement.

7. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says Jesus had knowledge of human nature. He knew how people would react to him, which is why he did not go openly to the feast.

8. Dr. Lloyd-Jones transitions to discussing people's reactions to Jesus in verses 11-13. The Jews, meaning the religious leaders, reacted with contempt and saw Jesus as a nuisance. They dismissed him as "that fellow."

9. The common people reacted by muttering and arguing about Jesus. Some said he was a good man, maybe a political reformer. Others said he deceived the people. But they were all wrong.

10. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says the only right reaction is to worship Jesus as the Son of God and savior. Mere opinions about him are useless. Interest in arguing about him shows blindness.

11. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks why people reacted this way to Jesus, who did no harm. The only explanation is spiritual blindness and sin. People cannot respond properly to God and holy things in their natural state.

12. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says the only solution for such blindness is being born again by the power of the Holy Spirit. No one becomes a Christian by nature or choice alone. God must open blind eyes.

13. Dr. Lloyd-Jones challenges the listeners to examine if they truly know Jesus as the Son of God and savior. If not, they remain in blindness and sin. They must cry out to God for mercy and new life.

14. Dr. Lloyd-Jones says it is not enough to think Jesus was a good man. One must see him as the Son of God who came to die for sins and be raised again. One must love him for his sacrifice and endurance.

15. Dr. Lloyd-Jones again pleads for listeners to examine themselves and cry out to God if they do not know Jesus. God will open their eyes if they ask for mercy and life.