Day 11: John 8:31-59 - The Truth Will Set You Free
“You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Today’s Reading Passage: John 8:31-59
He was considered radical at the time. Jesus said things people didn’t expect to hear. He taught things religious leaders didn’t expect to be taught. He created life change in the people touched by His miracles.
The religious leaders of that time, the Pharisees, were going mad at His claims. His claim to be God… His claim that it was acceptable to work on the Sabbath… His message would have sounded crazy to them… possibly irreverent!
Imagine being taught something your entire life to have Jesus come and completely mess it all up?
If what Jesus was saying was true, it would strip the religious leaders of their control, their power, their money, their livelihood! The Pharisees of that time wrestled with what to think about Jesus! And we, today, can often do the same.
As C.S. Lewis alluded to in his book, Mere Christianity - Jesus was either a liar, a lunatic, or Lord. And boy did the Pharisees think He was either lying or a lunatic when they called Him demon-possessed!
Was Jesus really who He said He was? Was Jesus really Lord? Jesus wanted them to see the truth. And He wants the same for us too!
He is God. He came to save us from our sins. He came to set us free! What an encouraging message for us! One that shouldn’t be threatening, but instead gives us hope!
What is your relationship with Jesus today? What insights are you gaining from the Bible that is helping you get to know Him better?
Pray that God will help you discern the truth as you read the Bible. That He will help you see Jesus for who He really is and so you can have a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him today.
Written by: Heather Erickson