Scripture to Read: John 5:37–38
Jesus was making sure the Jews knew that God the Father was the One who sent Him and Who testified about Him. Jesus gave the Jews a loving rebuke as He told them in John 5:37–38, “And the Father who sent Me, He has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His form. 38 You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe Him whom He sent.” Jesus’ life was confirmed (and still is today) by God the Father and God the Spirit. Jesus told the Jews that not only had they never heard God the Father’s voice, but they had never seen Him either. Because they had not heard or seen Him, they also did not have His Word in them. Therefore, Jesus told them that was the reason they were unwilling to believe all that He said and did. God says in His Word in Psalm 19:7, The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. God’s Word is always perfect and through His Word, our souls (our minds, wills, and emotions) are restored, refreshed, and renewed. God’s Word takes even the simplest mind and makes that person wise through His Wisdom, for Christ is Wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:24, 1 Corinthians 1:30, Colossians 2:3). We must guard against doubting the incredible evidence God has given us through His Word as to Who He is as Father, Son, and Spirit. God and His Word are our foundation.
Challenge & Application
• Why did Jesus have to give the Jews a loving rebuke, and how have you been lovingly rebuked by our Lord?
• How do you guard against doubting, and where do you find your proof for what you believe?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!