Our Text for today is John 8:12-59
From such a long reading, we will read together, verses 27 through 32.
They did not understand that He was telling them about the Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and that I do nothing on My own, but speak exactly what the Father has taught Me. He who sent Me is with Me. He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.”
As Jesus spoke these things, many believed in Him. So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
From the long reading today, I call to your attention four great lessons.
Lesson 1: Jesus is the Light: John 8:12
“Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.’”
Sometimes, I am perplexed when I see so many people who publicly and proudly act in ways that are spiritually wrong. It should not be puzzling because unless one knows Jesus, then one does not know the light. Jesus is the standard. He is the light. Today people believe that standards are decided by the people. In World War II, the German leaders thought this way and it led to the holocaust. When our own country decides that right and wrong are not determined by God and the light of Jesus, then we too will be in darkness.
Lesson 2: The Truth will set you free. John 8:31 and 32
He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Let’s ask, how does the truth set us free?
On a spiritual level, truth sets us free from the bondage and punishment of sin.
On a personal level, it sets us free from self-deception. We often create narratives about ourselves that are not fully aligned with reality. Acknowledging the truth about ourselves, as uncomfortable as it may be, liberates us from the chains of these illusions. It allows us to grow, to change, and to live as we should.
Lesson 3: Jesus was always here. John 8:58
“Before Abraham was born, I am!”This is a direct claim to divinity and an affirmation of Jesus’ eternal existence.
Lesson 4: Jesus is the only way to be saved. John 8:24
“For unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
It is only through Jesus that anyone can be saved.
Lonnie Davis