| “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’” |
| —John 8:31-32 |
Scripture clearly tells us that we are not to judge others (Matthew 7:1-2). Scripture also tells us that we will know who really belongs to Jesus by the presence of the fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).
When we examine our own hearts, how do we know if we really are disciples of the Most High God? Jesus offered these words, as recorded in John 8:31-32:
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
One of the reasons that we study God’s written Word, the Bible, is that it is, in fact, God’s Truth. It tells us about God, what He has lovingly done for us, and what He requires of us.
The Old Testament narrates the relationship of God to His chosen people. The New Testament tells us about the loving plan that God executed to save those He has chosen to belong to Himself—both Jews and Gentiles. Through Jesus, our sins are forgiven and our eternal destiny is secured.
To live for God, to follow Christ, to allow the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us along the pathway God has provided for us—all of these are encapsulated in Jesus’ instruction. So, as we begin another new day, let us continue to learn about God and His will for us by reading, studying, and meditating on His written Word. Let’s communicate with Him in prayer. Let’s listen with our spiritual ears for the leading of the Holy Spirit, as He marks the pathway of our lives. By doing this, we will truly show that we are Christ’s very own disciples. And that, dear ones, is the very best we can ever be.
Based on a blog originally posted on Tuesday, April 11, 2017
