When Religion Protects Itself Instead of Truth (John 11:47-48)

Expository Outline

Title: When Religion Protects Itself Text: John 11:47-48

1. The Gathering of the Council (v. 47a)
   • The chief priests and Pharisees convene, completely panicked by the evidence.
2. The Admission of the Signs (v. 47b)
   • "This man is performing many signs." They do not deny the truth; they actively suppress it.
3. The Fear of Losing Position (v. 48)
   • "The Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation." They cared more about their earthly institution than the eternal kingdom.

Topical Outline

Title: The Danger of Institutionalism

1. Elevating Tradition over Truth
   • When preserving the structure becomes more important than obeying the Scripture, religion becomes corrupt.
2. Fearing Men over Fearing God
   • The leaders were terrified of Rome but had zero fear of the Son of God standing right in front of them.
3. Rejecting the Authority of Christ
   • We must never allow human organizations or pride to prevent us from fully submitting to the straightforward commands of the gospel.

Textual Outline

Title: An Unbelieving Conclusion Text: John 11:47-48

1. An Undeniable Miracle
   • The evidence was irrefutable. Lazarus was walking around.
2. An Unjust Council
   • Instead of repenting and worshiping, they strategized on how to maintain their grip on power.
3. An Ultimate Betrayal
   • Their desire to save "their place" led directly to the murder of the Messiah.

John 11 Sermon Series