THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JOHN - Chapter 7 - Verse 47

Verse 47. Are ye also deceived? They set down the claims of Jesus as of course an imposture. They did not examine, but were, like thousands, determined to believe that he was a deceiver. Hence they did not ask them whether they were convinced, or had seen evidence that he was the Messiah; but, with mingled contempt, envy, and anger, they asked if they were also deluded. Thus many assume religion to be an imposture; and when one becomes a Christian, they assume at once that he is deceived, that he is the victim of foolish credulity or superstition, and treat him with ridicule or scorn. Candour would require them to inquire whether such changes were not proof of the power and truth of the gospel, as candour in the case of the rulers required them to inquire whether Jesus had not given them evidence that he was from God.