Jesus is Essential
John 8:48–51: Then the Jews answered and said to Him, “Do we not say rightly that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?” Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon; but I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me. And I do not seek My own glory; there is One who seeks and judges. Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.”
Now the discussion turned ugly. Jesus’ opponents had already questioned his proof and family connections; now they said what they had been thinking all along: you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed. Few insults could have carried more anger and bitterness in the first century.
But Jesus ignored the name calling. He stuck to his basic theme of true discipleship by emphasizing that true disciples keep Jesus’ words. Let us not lose the message of eternal life in the difficult discussions of this chapter. John maintained this theme because he had heard Jesus speak of it so often. The Son does not glorify himself. The Father glorifies him. Those who trust the Son’s word advance the Father’s glory and will never see death. 1
Walking with Jesus
Does Jesus really possess your life? Are you willing to set aside your goals and ambitions for His purposes? Have you ever considered how “family time” and “ministry time” can be synced together as a Spirit-filled experience? Does serving the Lord seem like a guilty obligation to fulfill, or a joy-filled opportunity to embrace? (Before answering, read Matthew 5:1-12 and pray about your discipleship relationship with Him.)
And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:26
The devil’s world is demonization, a Christ-follower’s world is transformation.
Praying
Lord, please continue to transform me each day by Your love, grace, mercy, and truth.
1. Gangel, K. O. (2000). John (Vol. 4). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
