The Gospel of John #48
/By Robert E Guenther
Continuing our review of the Gospel of John, Chapter 8. Which is the debate on whether or not the rulers should believe that this man Jesus is indeed the Christ.
Vs. John 8:25 “Then said they unto him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith unto them, Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning.” The Lord’s answer is one that brings out the truth as He has stated before. His answer will bring some under conviction as He states His relationship with the Father. Others will not believe His words and they will die as a result of their unbelief.
Vs. John 8:26 “I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him.” These men were always looking for the truth but did not believe that our Lord Jesus Christ was and is the one true God. They were not looking for a suffering, lowly servant but rather a conquering, powerful King to rule over them.
Vs. John 8:27 “They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.” The fact that the Father and the Son are one and the same God is not the truth that these men were wanting to hear. They were focused on the Son of man outward appearance more than what He was saying and teaching.
Vs. John 8:28 “Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.” A couple of verses come to mind when I think about our Lord being lifted up: John 3:14 “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:” His people could look up at the serpent and be healed. These people could look upon the Lord as He hung on the cross and be saved by believing the fact that He died for them, was buried and raised again on the third day. John 12:32 - 34 “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. This he said, signifying what death he should die. The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?”
Vs. John 8:29 “And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” The truth the Lord declares and the life that He lives prove that He and the Father are one God.
Vs. John 8:30 “As he spake these words, many believed on him.” We rejoice that the Word of God has this effect on those who truly believe it.
Vs. John 8:31 “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;” After thes men believed the Truth they are asked to be disciples who are faithful to His Word.
Vs. John 8:32 “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” We are free to do that which is right and pleases our Father. To be continued.....
