This presentation, based on John chapter 7:40-52, highlights that Jesus's invitation demands a response, often leading to division, much like the American Revolution. It outlines three ways to respond: knowledge, conviction, and courage.

First, respond with knowledge by digging into Scripture. As Jesus taught, people debated his identity, some recognizing him as "the Prophet" or "the Christ". Others questioned if the Messiah could come from Galilee, citing scripture that he must be from David’s offspring and Bethlehem. This shows the crowd knew their Bibles, yet their incomplete understanding prevented them from realizing Jesus was indeed born in Bethlehem. The message stresses lifelong Bible study to interpret God’s word accurately and biblically, countering modern confusions about Jesus’s identity.

Second, respond with conviction by embracing Scripture. When chief priests sent temple guards to arrest Jesus, they returned empty-handed, stating, "No one has ever spoken like this man". Their training in the law meant Jesus's words resonated deeply, compelling them to defy their superiors. This exemplifies choosing God’s truth over human command, urging believers to embody integrity and act as "salt and light" by reorienting priorities to God's word.

Finally, respond with courage by standing on God's truth. Nicodemus, a senior Pharisee, courageously challenged his colleagues, asking if their law permitted judging a man without a hearing. This exposed their hypocrisy and demonstrated remarkable courage against group pressure. The sermon notes that first-century Christians faced significant division and persecution, yet chose truth. Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s example of defying Nazi Germany and sacrificing his life underscores this call for Christian courage, emphasizing that standing for truth, even at great cost, is vital for an eternal relationship with Jesus.