A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the key to discipleship and truth that sets you free, the enslaving power of sin, and the differece between truth and lies.
A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the key to discipleship and truth that sets you free.
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)
Jesus taught in the Jerusalem temple during the Jewish festival of Tabernacles. And in V.12-29 he dialogued in an adversarial exchange with Pharisees who rejected him. But V.30 says other people did believe in him. So Jesus instructed the believers on discipleship.
As true disciples they should abide in his word to know the truth that sets them free. (V.31)
The Greek word for “abide” is meno, and means to stay in expectancy, to continue, dwell, endure, and remain. In other words, believing in Jesus required more than intellectual knowledge, but involved a relationship with him. To accept him as Lord and obey his teachings.
And the result? It would set them free.
A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the enslaving power of sin.
Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (ESV, John 8:34-36)
However, the believers reacted in a surprising manner to these instructions. They insisted that as descendents of Abraham, they had never been enslaved and rejected the need to be set free. What prompted this reaction? Apparently, their belief in Jesus was superficial and excluded messing with their lifestyle. Not unlike today. People are quick to accept Jesus as an intellectual acknowledgement or entrance into heaven. But balk when it includes submitting to him as Lord.
Enslavement of sin
Although they probably didn’t mean they had never been physically enslaved. The Festival of Tabernacles was itself, a reminder of the temporary shelters Israel lived in during their wilderness journey after leaving slavery in Egypt. Furthermore, they currently lived under Roman occupation and their history included multiple times of captivity, exile, and oppression by other civilizations.
Rather, they felt entitled as descendents of Abraham that earned them automatic entrance into the Kingdom of God. Another misunderstanding that seeps into modern thinking. There is no heavenly inclusion because your parents are believers or through membership in a church or denomination. Every person must choose to believe in and follow Jesus.
So Jesus shifts to explaining spiritual enslavement. Those who practice sin are slaves to it. The word “practices” is the Greek poiōn. It means the one who is continually doing and represents a habitual or ongoing action. In other words, an ongoing, sinful lifestyle will also enslave you. The Apostle Paul also affirms this truth.
Do you not know if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? (ESV, Romans 6:16)
Furthermore, the truth Jesus refers to is not a concept but himself–Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Jesus sets us free from sin and judgement. Accepting him as Savior and Lord sets us free indeed.
A study of John I:31-38 reveals the difference between truth and lies.
I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you. I speak of what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.” (ESV, John 8:37-38)
John the Baptist warned the Jewish people in Matthew 3:9 and Luke 3:8 not to assume they entered the kingdom of God because they were Abraham’s descendents. And Jesus addressed it as well in Matthew 8:11-12. Now he draws a distinction from family life between slaves and sons to further illustrate. Slaves were often considered part of a household but lacked the status of a son. They were often valued and loved, but still temporary. A son, however, was permanent. And the spiritual application? Sons have an eternal legacy and slaves do not.
Jesus affirmed the Jews’ standing as the offspring of Abraham. But they lacked the more important spiritual component. They didn’t imitate Abraham’s faith. He cites as proof, the absence of his word in their hearts that instead, were filled with murderous thoughts. He further distinguished between believers and non-believers by identifying them with their fathers. Jesus’ words and actions reflected his obedience to his heavenly father, and their words and actions reflected their father, the devil.
We’re reminded that who you listen to matters. Do you fill your hearts with God’s truth or Satan’s lies? Each is followed by corresponding actions. God’s truth promotes lives that pursue righteousness. And Satan’s lies promotes lives enslaved by sin.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
Is Christmas a Hoax? A mass dilusion of spiritual deception? An elaborate scheme of manipulation? A religious fable? If so, where does that leave Christians today?
In moments of reflection, many Christians have asked this question. I have. Because times of doubt are common in the Christian faith. And a favorite tool of our adversary.
Some people suggest that if the Christmas story isn’t true, the Christian lifestyle still presents a meaningful, moral framework for life. And therefore, worth following. But the Apostle Paul rejects that idea.
And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 15:14, 19)
In other words, if the birth of Jesus Christ two thousand years ago is simply a feel good story with a moral lesson, a Santa Claus inspired holiday celebration, and a menu of new Hallmark movies, Christians should be pitied. Because we follow a lie. A worthless faith. And the hope of eternal redemption is a grave illusion.
Therefore, I am all in on Jesus Christ and celebrating the meaning of his birth. And hold on to three reminders for Christmas hope.
Is Christmas a hoax? Christmas is faith in a historical event
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” (ESV, Hebrews 11:6)
The birth of Jesus Christ is a historical event. It was prophesied 700 years before it occurred and the historical facts surrounding it are undisputed. The Christian faith supplies the “why.”
It’s because humanity is relationally separated from God because of sin. And we cannot fix or save ourselves. So Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to live a perfect life and die as a sacrifice for those sins. Those who believe in Jesus and confess him as savior and lord are forgiven of their sins and granted eternal life in heaven.
Still, it requires faith. Either you believe or don’t. Furthermore, Jesus shouldn’t be considered simply a good man or moral teacher. Because he claimed to be God. So if he wasn’t, he was something else. Since history factually records Jesus’ birth it can’t be dismissed as a fairy tale. But your response to those events involves faith.
Is Christmas a hoax? The Word of God is Absolute truth
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV, 2 Timothy 3:16)
God’s Word is absolute truth. A solid foundation to build your life on. And a common point of reference for everyone. Otherwise it’s your truth versus my truth and how do we ever agree on anything? Because eventually our truths will collide and then what? The truth backed by the biggest gun wins?
Without absolute truth life is a potpourri of human opinion riding a cultural tide that pulls you into a choppy sea of confusion. With nothing to hold you fast.
The absolute truth of Scripture anchors my beliefs. And provides sure footing that informs my faith. Its message is consistent and reliable for purposeful living. And while I must still exercise faith, it is not blind but based on evidence. And offers an eternal future.
Is Christmas a hoax? A Community of Faithful Followers Offers Assurance
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (ESV, Hebrews 11:1-3)
Rather than ask, “How can so many people be deceived?” I ask, “How can so many people be wrong?” And, “why would anyone suffer or die for a something that isn’t true?”
In addition, I gather weekly with a local body of fellow believers. Broken and imperfect. Yet, positive and uplifting. A community driven by love and seasoned with grace that gives and receives assurance. Furthermore, we are unified by worship. Bonded in the fellowship of God’s Spirit in mutual encouragement and support. In short, doing life together.
And Christmas brings it all together with joy and hope.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (ESV, Luke 2:11)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 8:21 reveals two worlds and the result of rejecting the one from above, the coming crucifixion, and the obedience of Jesus and increase of his followers.
A study of John 8:21 reveals two worlds and the result of rejecting the one from above.
He said to them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins. (ESV, John 8:23-24)
In John 8:14, Jesus spoke to the Pharisees about going away and again in V.21. He adds they won’t be able to find or follow him, but will die in their sin. The Greek word for “sin” in V.14 is hamartía and means to miss the mark. It describes our moral failure to meet God’s righteous standard. And Jesus uses the singular form to indicate the specific sin that prevents them from following him. Unbelief.
Why is Jesus leaving? Because of his coming death, burial and resurrection. And he gets even more specific with a bit of urgency in V.24. Unless they believe he is who he says is, they will die in their sins. Here, he uses the plural form, and It clarifies both their condition as residents of the world below and the solution Jesus offers. Sin separates them from God but belief in Jesus provides eternal life through the forgiveness of sin.
Although Jesus spoke to the Pharisees, his words apply to us as well. We receive eternal life by believing in Jesus as the Son of God. Otherwise, we die in our sins and cannot follow him to heaven.
A study of John 8:21 reveals the coming crucifixion…
So Jesus said to them, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. (ESV, John 8:28)
The Pharisees couldn’t imagine themselves not going to heaven. After all, they were experts on the Old Testament Law. Respected as the elite religious leaders among Israel. If they didn’t go to heaven would anyone? And they probably considered Jesus a lunatic. Full of crazy talk about him from the world above and them from the world below. And where could he possibly go they couldn’t? So, perhaps, with a shrug and wink at each other, they suggested maybe he planned to commit suicide. That was definitely not something they would follow.
But then, he talked even crazier about being lifted up, which made no sense at all. Because the Messiah they expected was a conquering king who would overthrow the Roman empire and establish his kingdom on earth. Although it was also something Jesus said before.
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. (ESV, John 3:14-15)
The saying was tied to the story in Numbers 21:8-9 when Moses lifted up a bronze serpent as the antidote to poisonous snake bites. Unfortunately, the Pharisees didn’t make that connection either. But they surely knew about Isaiah 53 that prophesied of a suffering servant. It pictured Jesus as an innocent lamb who would sacrifice his life on a cross. It was God’s plan to free mankind from sin.
A study of John 8:21 reveals the obedience of Jesus and increase of his followers.
And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to him.” As he was saying these things, many believed in him. (ESV, John 8:29-30)
Jesus ends by repeating that he acts according the father’s authority. He says the words the father gives him and perfectly obeys the father’s will. Therefore, the father’s presence never leaves him because he is untainted by sin. And he is always in complete agreement and oneness with the father. Something that is beyond our human experience.
This is why we need Jesus as an intercessor. He is the only one unblemished by sin and that qualifies as a pure sacrifice. As Believers who follow Jesus, we are forgiven of our sins. But will still be plagued by them on this earth. However, as Paul writes, we will one day leave them behind.
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 15:56-57)
Although the Pharisees rejected Jesus, there were people in the crowd who believed in him. And the same is true today. Those who believe in Jesus are forgiven of their sins. Those who don’t will die in them. And we all make one of those choices.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 8:12-20 reveals Jesus as the light of the world, witnesses of Jesus’ divinity, and the result of not knowing Jesus.
A study of John 8:12-20 reveals Jesus as the light of the world.
I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. (ESV, John 8:12)
During the Festival of the Tabernacles, Jesus teaches in the treasury area of the Jerusalem temple, located in the women’s court. Four huge lampstands positioned around the court were lit each night to symbolize the pillar of fire that guided Israel on its wilderness journey to the promised land in (Exod. 13:21–22). They manitude of light they produced was visible from far outside of the city. Within this context, Jesus makes a remarkable claim. Perhaps, sweeping his hand at the lamps for a visual, dramatic effect.
Of course, light is a term used throughout both the Old and New Testament on different topics like revelation, purity, truth, and salvation. And John already used it to identify Jesus in the first chapter of his gospel.
In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (ESV, John 1:4-5)
It was likewise used by Isaiah in his prophecy about the Messiah.
I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth. (ESV, Isaiah 49:6)
And now, Jesus announces himself as the fulfillment of these scriptures. He is the light that leads mankind from darkness and into eternal life. A bold proclamation. One the Pharisees understood, but rejected.
A study of John 8:12-20 reveals witnesses of Jesus’ divinity.
In your Law it is written that the testimony of two people is true. I am the one who bears witness about myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness about me.” (ESV, John 8:17-18)
The Pharisees challenged Jesus’ divine claim by appealing to Deuteronomy 19:15, which requires two or three witnessees to establish legal testimony. It’s sadly ironic for them to respond to a divine claim by appealing to a human law. For certainly they knew if Jesus was God, he superceded it. So they probably should have honestly admitted, “We don’t believe you are God.” Because referring to the law makes disbelief in him as God their obvious assumption.
Still, Jesus answers them saying God the Father bears witness about him. He could have spoken about when he was baptized by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:17) and God declared approval of Jesus as his son from heaven. And added the public testimony of John the Baptist (John 1:29). Furthermore, as religious scholars, they certainly knew the prophecies of Isaiah 53, Micah 5:2, and Psalm 2. But Jesus didn’t point out any of this. The problem was not a lack of witnesses on his behalf. It was their unbelieving hearts.
A study of John 8:12-20 reveals the result of not knowing Jesus.
They said to him therefore, “Where is your Father?” Jesus answered, “You know neither me nor my Father. If you knew me, you would know my Father also.” (ESV, John 8:19)
Jesus tried to help people see the truth. To see HIM as the revelation of that truth. But many still rejected him like they do today. And in this scene, it was by the Pharisees who eagerly awaited his coming. And immediately recognized him as the Messiah. But were blind to it. And Jesus tells them the result. If you don’t know me as the Son of God, you can’t know the father either. Because we are the same God.
And there’s another result. An ultimate consequence that Jesus speaks about in his Sermon on the Mount concerning the final judgment.
On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ (ESV, Matthew 7:22-23)
In other words, entrance into heaven is not based on our efforts at goodness. But whether or not we know Jesus Christ. It requires the confession and repentance of our sin. Entering a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. And a committment to follow him as disciples.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
When God’s faithful people face affliction, Psalm 44 tells us how to respond. Remember God’s past faithfulness, demonstrate covenant loyalty despite present suffering, and boldly plead for God’s intervention.
When God’s faithful people face affliction. Remember God’s past faithfulness (1-8)
O God, we have heard with our ears, our fathers have told us, what deeds you performed in their day, in the days of old. (ESV, Psalm 44:1)
A familiar storyline runs throughout the Old Testament. It begins as God establishes a covenant with Israel at Mount Sinai under the leadership of Moses. If the people of Israel obey God’s voice and keep his covenant, they will remain his treasured possession among all people. (Exodus 19:5-6)
You’d think this favored position as God’s people would motivate ongoing obedience. But the people of Israel regularly turned away from God to idol worship. And it became an on again, off again pattern of turning away and then back to God. So God punished their disobedience when they turned to idol worship. He let other nations conquer, exile, and oppress them. But restored them when they repented and turned back to him.
In this passage, the psalmist begins on a positive note by remembering God’s faithfulness. He affirms God’s blessings on Israel and gives him full credit for defeating their enemies. It was not Israel’s military might that cleared the way into the promised land, but the hand of God. And V.8, the psalmist gives thanks to God’s name forever.
When God’s faithful people face affliction. Demonstrate covenant loyalty despite present suffering. (9-22)
All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten you, and we have not been false to your covenant. Our heart has not turned back, nor have our steps departed from your way. (ESV, Psalm 44:17-18)
However, in V.9, the psalmist takes a sharp turn. He points out the people of Israel are presently under hardship. Israel’s army is suffering defeat, people are scattering, and losing possesions as spoils of war. And if that’s not enough, their enemies humiliate them further by scornfully taunting them. And now the psalmist complains.
Because in spite of their hardship and suffering, the nation of Israel remains faithful to God’s covenant. And it implies a question: Why are we being punished? We upheld our end of the covenant. It’s a frequent question asked today by Christ-followers when facing difficult circumstances. Aren’t we supposed to experience God’s blessings when we faithfully follow him?
Still, the psalmist affirms Israel’s unwavering faithfulness to God.
However, Psalm 44 confronts a painful truth. God’s ultimate rewards are eternal and not temporal. For reasons beyond our understanding, even God’s faithful people suffer pain, injustice, and hardship in this life. And this was taught by the Jesus himself.
Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (ESV, Matthew 5:11-12)
In Romans 8:36, the Apostle Paul quotes Psalm 44:22 to teachthat sometimes our covenant union with Christ is the reason we suffer. And not because God is punishing or abandoning us.
When God’s faithful people face affliction. Boldly pead for God’s intervention. (23-26)
Awake! Why are you sleeping, O Lord? Rouse yourself! Do not reject us forever!Rise up; come to our help! Redeem us for the sake of your steadfast love! (ESV, Psalm 44:23, 26)
Jesus was perfectly obedient to God the father. But in the Garden of Gethsemane, he prayed and asked God the father to spare him from crucifixion. So it’s perfectly acceptable for us to ask God to deliver us from our difficult circumstances. And this is exactly what the psalmist does. In fact, you can sense the desperation in his voice as he cries for God to wake up!
Jesus not only encourages us to pray with diligence. In Luke 18:1-8, he tells the parable of a widow who kept appealing to a judge for justice against an adversary. And the judge finally relents because he realizes it’s the only way she will stop pestering him. We are encourage to pray with the same persistence. But recognize that God is sovereign and sometimes the answer is “no.”
The psalmist ends by crying out for God’s mercy and appealing to his steadfast love. And in our times of trial, we too, should remember God’s faithful past and the assurance of his steadfast love. We are never forgotten or abandoned by God. But eternally secured by his amazing grace through Jesus Christ, our savior and lord.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith shouldn’t be confusing
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or complicated religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
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