Odd and Unhealthy Familiarity

“Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him.
–Mark 6:3
Many people in Nazareth had an odd and unhealthy familiarity with Jesus. This made it difficult for them to receive from Him. They assumed that since they knew a little about Him, they knew all about Him. 

But they didn’t know all about Jesus. He is so much more than all of our knowledge of Him put together. We will forever be learning about Jesus and His grace and love towards us.

Sadly, a majority of those in Nazareth became offended at Jesus—their odd and unhealthy familiarity caused a stumbling block in them that led to a contempt for Him and unbelief of who He is. 

This should make you pause and consider. Do you have an odd and unhealthy familiarity with Jesus? Do you assume that since you know something about Jesus that you know everything about Him? Be careful! This kind of familiarity can lead to contempt and unbelief as it did for many in Nazareth.

If an odd and unhealthy familiarity with Jesus has influenced you, it’s time to approach Jesus afresh. Not with the familiarity of history, heritage, and culture. Simply come to Jesus—approach Him like a little child and believe.