Scripture to Read: John 8:31-59
It’s incredible, all of the incredible things that our Lord Jesus Christ did to convince the Jews that He was God. Yet so many missed who He was. Things have not changed in 2,000 plus years. Our Lord continues to reveal Himself through us and His creation, and people still miss Him today. As Jesus was confronted in John 8:48-58, He continues to try to help the Jews see that He is God. Jesus proclaims to them, “I tell you the truth; anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!” The Jews are so focused on physical death that they do not understand Jesus is talking about their souls. (NOTE: We do not have a soul, but we are a soul, living in a fleshly shell. Those who obey Christ, our soul will never experience separation from God. Those who refuse Christ, their soul will one day be separated from God forever.) So, when Jesus tells the Jews that those who are obedient to Him will never taste death, the Jews challenge Him by saying, “Surely You are not greater than our father Abraham, who died?” Jesus tells them He is greater than Abraham, and He came to glorify the Father. Jesus makes it clear who He is by saying, “…before Abraham was born, I am.” Our Lord uses the name “Yahweh” or “Jehovah” as He describes Himself. This is the same name He used with Moses in Exodus 3:13-14. Jesus is greater than all, and that is why we must follow Him alone.
Challenge & Application
Do you truly understand that Jesus is God? How are you living for Him? List the ways you are fleeing from the lusts of this world and how you are pursuing Christ and His Word. This will help you see where you need to die to self and surrender to Him.
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!