How Stereotypes and Prejudices Block Our Blessings

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, October 13, 2021

And Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”

John 1:46 (NKJV)

At the beginning of His mission, Jesus brought together a team of followers to work with. Most of them were ordinary people who may not have travelled beyond their neighborhoods.

Many held to local prejudices and stereotypes. Consider the case of Nathaniel. Philip told Nathaniel, “We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” (John 1:45).

You can almost hear Nathaniel laughing. “Philip, get serious, my friend. Where did you say this Jesus is from?”

“Nazareth.” Philip replies.

“Are you listening to yourself”, asks Nathaniel. “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46).

Surely, what could a small village of about 500 inhabitants (according to some Bible scholars) boast of? Were there no other more noble Jewish cities that could produce the Messiah?

However, to his credit, when Nathaniel agreed to meet Jesus, his initial assessment of Jesus changed completely. When Jesus described Nathaniel’s character, the latter understood that the greatest blessing to man could come out of Nazareth.

At that point, Nathaniel confessed, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” (John 1:49).

Like Nathaniel before meeting Jesus, we often judge, dismiss and discriminate on other children of God based on their social, economic, political and geographical backgrounds.

In the process, we miss out on great opportunities, friendships and connections that would transform our lives. If we really want the blessings that God brings through others, we must learn to overcome our prejudices and stereotypes.

Lord Jesus, teach me to see people from Your point of view.