10.5 From Beneath
Human Blindness and Divine Truth

Read John 5:38–40. What does Jesus say about the Holy Scripture here?

In John 5:38–40, Jesus shows how central the Holy Scripture is for understanding Him as the Messiah and the truth. His words reveal not only the purpose of the Scripture but also a serious warning: it is possible to read the Holy Scripture without recognizing its true goal—Jesus Christ.

1. The Holy Scripture Points to Jesus

Jesus makes it clear that the Scripture—both the Old Testament and the later writings of the New Testament—points to Him. The statements in John 5:39–40 show:

• The Scripture as a Witness: Jesus says, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that testify about me.” The Scripture reveals God’s plan of salvation, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

• The Goal of the Scripture is Jesus: All prophecies, stories, and laws in the Old Testament prepare the way for the coming of Jesus. He is the central theme of the entire Bible.

2. The Danger of a Superficial Knowledge of the Bible

Jesus criticizes the religious leaders of His time for intensely studying the Scripture but not understanding its goal:

• Knowledge without Relationship: The Pharisees had comprehensive knowledge of the Scripture, yet they had no faith and no relationship with the One the Scripture points to.

• Form without Substance: Reading the Scripture without recognizing Jesus remains ineffective. It’s not just about studying the Bible as an intellectual or religious exercise, but about experiencing it as a living testimony to Jesus.

3. The Scripture as the Foundation of Truth

Jesus shows that the Scripture not only has historical or moral significance but is a divine revelation:

• Authority of the Scripture: The words of the Bible have divine authority and are a reliable testimony to the truth.

• Eternal Life through the Scripture: The Scripture not only points to Jesus but invites us to receive eternal life through Him.

Conclusion

Jesus makes it clear that the Holy Scripture is not the goal in itself but points to Him—the way, the truth, and the life. It is an invitation to recognize Jesus and find eternal life in Him. As Christians, we are called to study the Scripture not only to gain knowledge but to encounter Jesus and experience the truth through Him.

Read Luke 24:27. Why is it important that Jesus first pointed to the Holy Scripture to reveal the significance of His ministry?

In Luke 24:27, Jesus shows how essential the Holy Scripture is to understanding His ministry, suffering, and resurrection. He explained to the disciples on the road to Emmaus everything “that was written about him in all the Scriptures.” This underscores the significance of the Scripture as a divine testimony about Jesus and His plan of salvation.

1. The Holy Scripture as the Foundation for Understanding Jesus’ Ministry

Jesus pointed to the Scripture first because it forms the foundation for understanding His identity and mission:

• Prophecies Fulfilled in Him: The Old Testament contains numerous prophecies about the Messiah. Through these revelations, Jesus showed that His life and work were part of God’s eternal plan.

• Connection of Scripture and Faith: The disciples were confused about Jesus’ death. Through the Scripture, Jesus revealed that His suffering and resurrection were necessary to fulfill God’s plan.

2. The Scripture as a Divine Testimony

The Scripture is more than a historical document. It is the word of God that points to Jesus:

• Words of the Prophets: As Zechariah (Luke 1:70) and Peter (Acts 1:16) emphasized, God spoke through the prophets to announce the Messiah.

• Divine Authority: The Scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit and conveys the truth about God’s character, His plan of salvation, and our relationship with Him.

3. Why Jesus Mentioned the Scripture First

• Trust in God’s Revelation: By using the Scripture as a foundation, He shows that the Bible is a reliable source for understanding the truth about God and the Messiah.

• A Key to Interpretation: Without the Scripture, the disciples would not have been able to understand the connection between Jesus’ death, His resurrection, and God’s plan.

• Significance for Us Today: We too are called to study the Scripture to understand Jesus’ mission and our role in God’s plan.

4. The Bible as a Meaning-Giver for Life

The Bible is not a guide for science or technology, but it provides us with the framework to answer the greatest questions of life:

• Who is God?: The Scripture reveals God’s nature, character, and His love for us.

• Why Do We Exist?: The Bible shows our origin as God’s creation and our purpose as His beloved children.

• Where is History Going?: It gives us hope by promising us a future with God through Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

Jesus showed that the Holy Scripture is the key to understanding His ministry and recognizing our relationship with God. The Bible is more than a book—it is the living word of God that gives us light and direction. By studying it, we learn who Jesus is, why He came, and how we can live in His light.

What teachings of truth are shown in the Bible that science, even in theory, can never convey to us?

The Bible offers teachings of truth that go beyond the realm of science and answer fundamental questions about our life, origin, and purpose. These truths are spiritual and existential in nature and cannot be grasped by science alone:

1. The Origin of the Universe and Life

The Bible reveals that God is the Creator of all things (Genesis 1:1).

• Creation as God’s Work: Science can examine how the universe works, but it cannot provide a definitive answer as to why it exists or who brought it into being.

• The Purpose of Creation: The Bible shows that creation is not accidental but was made out of love and intention (Colossians 1:16).

2. The Meaning and Purpose of Life

Science can analyze how life works, but it cannot find any meaning or purpose in it.

• Biblical Teaching: The Bible teaches that the meaning of life lies in the relationship with God, who created us to love Him, honor Him, and have fellowship with Him (Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew 22:37).

• Our Identity: The Bible teaches that we are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), which gives our lives inherent value and special dignity.

3. The Nature of Good and Evil

Science can describe how humans act, but it cannot explain why there is morality or what is absolutely right or wrong.

• Biblical Teaching: The Bible shows that moral truth is rooted in God’s nature and will (Micah 6:8). Good and evil are not mere societal constructs but expressions of God’s character and law (Romans 2:14–15).

4. The Problem of Sin

Science can examine the effects of wrongdoing, but it cannot fully explain or solve the cause—the sin.

• Biblical Teaching: The Bible shows that sin is a separation from God, which originated through human disobedience (Romans 3:23). It also reveals God’s solution to the problem of sin in Jesus Christ (John 3:16).

5. The Hope of Redemption

Science cannot provide definitive hope or certainty when it comes to death or life after death.

• Biblical Teaching: The Bible teaches that through Jesus Christ, there is forgiveness, redemption, and eternal life (John 11:25–26). This hope provides comfort and direction in our earthly lives.

6. The Relationship with God

Science cannot prove or disprove God, but the Bible shows that God has revealed Himself and seeks a personal relationship with us (John 14:6).

• God’s Nearness: The Bible teaches that God became man in Christ to save us and show us the way to Him (John 1:14).

• Prayer and Fellowship: Through the Bible, we learn that we can enter into a relationship with God—something that no scientific theory can explain.

7. The Future of Humanity

Science can make predictions about the fate of the Earth or the universe, but it cannot give hope for eternity.

• Biblical Teaching: The Bible promises a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness and peace will reign (Revelation 21:1–4). This future perspective gives us a hope that goes beyond the limits of science.

Conclusion

Science offers valuable insights into the natural world, but the deepest questions of life—about origin, meaning, morality, redemption, and future—are answered only by the Bible. These teachings of truth are not theoretical but existential, and they invite us to live our lives in the light of God’s revelation.

The teachings of the Bible and its central message about Jesus Christ not only have theological significance but also directly affect our daily lives and our faith. Here is how these truths can be integrated into our daily and spiritual lives:

1. The Scripture as the Foundation for Guidance

The Bible is like a compass that guides us in a world full of uncertainties and conflicting opinions:

• In Faith: The Scripture shows us who God is, how we can encounter Him, and what He has in store for us.

• In Daily Life: Through the wisdom of the Bible, we can make ethical decisions, resolve conflicts, and act in relationships according to God’s principles.

2. Focus on the Relationship with Jesus

The Scripture not only points to Jesus but also invites us to have a living relationship with Him:

• Daily Encounter: By reading the Bible, we encounter Jesus and recognize His love and guidance for our lives.

• Strengthening Trust: The promises of Scripture give us support in difficult times because we know that Jesus is our Redeemer and Lord.

3. Truth as the Foundation of Life

The Bible teaches us that truth is not relative but is grounded in God’s nature and His word:

• Faith and Integrity: By orienting ourselves to the truth of the Bible, we can build our lives on a solid foundation and act with honesty and faithfulness.

• Freedom through Truth: As Jesus says in John 8:32, “The truth will set you free.” The truth of Scripture frees us from sin, guilt, and the confusion of a world without clear values.

4. Hope in an Uncertain World

The Bible offers answers to the deepest questions of life—about the meaning of life, our origin, and our future:

• Comfort in Suffering: The Scripture reminds us that God is with us even in difficult moments and has a plan for our lives.

• Future Perspective: Through the promise of God’s kingdom, we have a hope that goes beyond the here and now.

5. A Life that Honors God

The Bible gives us concrete instructions on how we can live out our faith practically:

• Love for Others: The teachings of Jesus inspire us to love others, serve them, and show compassion.

• Holiness: Through studying Scripture, we learn to align our lives more and more with God’s will.

Conclusion

The Bible is not just an old book or a collection of stories. It is the living word of God that gives us guidance, comfort, hope, and joy. Its teachings are an invitation to lead our lives in the light of the truth embodied in Jesus Christ. By studying Scripture, we can grow in our faith, live by God’s principles in our daily lives, and be fulfilled in a relationship with Jesus.

The Bible is the compass that leads us to God’s truth and into a living relationship with Jesus.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-5-from-beneath-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 11

¹ I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.

² God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel saying,

³ Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life.

⁴ But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.

⁵ Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

⁶ And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

⁷ What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.

⁸ (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber, eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

⁹ And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a recompence unto them:

¹⁰ Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their back alway.

¹¹ I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.

¹² Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?

¹³ For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:

¹⁴ If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them.

¹⁵ For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?

¹⁶ For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.

¹⁷ And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert grafted in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

¹⁸ Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

¹⁹ Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in.

²⁰ Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:

²¹ For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.

²² Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.

²³ And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.

²⁴ For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?

²⁵ For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

²⁶ And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:

²⁷ For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.

²⁸ As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the father’s sakes.

²⁹ For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.

³⁰ For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:

³¹ Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.

³² For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.

³³ O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

³⁴ For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?

³⁵ Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?

³⁶ For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans chapter 11 is a profound and encouraging section in which Paul addresses the relationship between Israel, the Gentiles, and God’s plan. Paul emphasizes that God has not rejected His chosen people, but that Israel’s stubbornness is part of a larger salvation plan that includes the Gentiles. This text demonstrates God’s faithfulness, wisdom, and mercy, inviting all people, both Jews and Gentiles, to salvation.

Commentary

Israel’s Stubbornness and God’s Faithfulness (Verses 1–10): Paul makes it clear that God has not rejected His people. He uses the example of the prophet Elijah to show that God always preserves a “remnant” who remain faithful to Him. This remnant is not based on human effort but on God’s grace. The stubbornness of part of Israel is not final but serves a greater purpose.

The Calling of the Gentiles (Verses 11–16): Paul explains that Israel’s fall has brought salvation to the Gentiles, in order to provoke Israel to jealousy for God. This illustrates God’s sovereign plan, which leads both Israel and the Gentiles to salvation. Paul envisions the future acceptance of Israel as an act of resurrection, which will complete salvation.

Warning to Gentile Christians (Verses 17–24): Paul uses the image of an olive tree to illustrate the relationship between Jews and Gentiles. The Gentiles, referred to as “wild branches,” have been grafted into the olive tree, while some natural branches (Israel) have been broken off. Paul warns Gentile Christians against arrogance and reminds them that they stand only by faith. He also cautions that God can graft the natural branches back in.

Israel’s Final Salvation (Verses 25–32): Paul reveals the “mystery”: Israel’s stubbornness is temporary until the full number of Gentiles has come in. Then, all of Israel will be saved, according to God’s promises. This passage highlights God’s faithfulness to His covenants and His intention to show mercy to all people.

Praise for God’s Wisdom (Verses 33–36): Paul concludes with a praise for the incomprehensible wisdom and knowledge of God. His ways and plans are beyond understanding, but they lead to His honor and glory. Everything comes from God, exists through Him, and leads back to Him.

Summary

Romans chapter 11 illustrates God’s sovereign plan of salvation, which includes both Israel and the Gentiles. While a portion of Israel is temporarily hardened, this serves to incorporate the Gentiles into God’s saving community. In the end, all of Israel will be saved, fulfilling God’s plan of mercy and faithfulness. Paul urges readers to remain humble and to admire God’s marvelous wisdom, which brings all things to His glory.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-11-2024-romans-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/

10.4 Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus: Part II
Proof of His Messianic Mission

Read John 1:14, 17; 8:32; 14:6; and 15:26. How does John directly connect the concept of truth with Jesus?

The Gospel of John uniquely connects the concept of truth with Jesus Christ. Here, truth is not presented as an abstract principle but as a person—Jesus Himself. This statement holds profound significance for our faith, our understanding of God, and our guidance in life.

1. Jesus as the Personified Truth

   • John 1:14 and 1:17: Jesus is the Word made flesh who lived among us, “full of grace and truth.” He is the revelation of God in human form. In Him, we see the perfect truth about God’s character and His will.

   • John 14:6: Jesus clearly states, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Truth is not just something He teaches or represents—He Himself is the truth. This means that a relationship with Him is the foundation for recognizing the truth.

2. Truth in Contrast to Lies and Darkness

   • John 8:32: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Jesus shows that truth brings not only knowledge but also liberation—liberation from sin, guilt, and the power of evil.

   • John 8:44–46: In the Gospel of John, truth stands in contrast to lies that come from the devil. Jesus is the light that dispels darkness and gives us clarity about reality.

3. Truth is Not a Concept, but a Relationship The Gospel of John demonstrates that truth is not merely a collection of facts or a philosophical idea. In Jesus, truth is a living, personified reality:

   • Truth reveals God’s faithfulness, grace, and love.

   • It is not just something to believe but something to experience by entering into a relationship with Jesus.

4. The Cosmic Dimension of Truth

   • John 1:1–4 and Colossians 1:16–17: Jesus, the Word, was with God from the beginning and is the creator of all that exists. All knowledge, all reality, and all existence are founded in Him. Without Jesus, there is no truth, no knowledge, and no existence.

5. Truth that Illuminates Life

   • John 8:12: Jesus, the truth, is like the sun that drives away darkness. Through Him, reality becomes visible, and we can see the world and ourselves more clearly.

   • As C. S. Lewis describes it: “I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it but because by it I see everything else.” Jesus enables us to see life in its true light.

Conclusion

Jesus is not just a teacher of truth but the truth itself. This truth is the light that guides us, grants us freedom, and connects us with God. In a world full of uncertainty and deception, Jesus is the only reliable source of truth—a truth that not only is understood but also desires to be lived out.

The statement of Jesus, “I am the truth,” holds profound meaning that shapes not only our beliefs but also our daily lives. Here are the central connections:

1. Guidance in a Confusing World In a world where it is often claimed that truth is relative and “everyone has their own truth,” Jesus provides a firm foundation. His statement gives us:

   • Clarity in faith: We can rely on everything Jesus said and did as the unchanging truth of God.

   • Guidance in daily life: We can make decisions in the light of His truth without being unsettled by conflicting opinions or societal pressures.

2. Freedom through Truth Jesus says in John 8:32, “The truth will set you free.” This freedom has practical implications:

   • Freedom from sin and guilt: We do not have to live under the burden of our mistakes because Jesus’ truth grants us forgiveness and redemption.

   • Freedom from deception and fear: His truth frees us from false notions about ourselves, the world, and God. We can live with the assurance that God’s love sustains us.

3. A Life of Integrity Since Jesus is the truth, He calls us to live a life of integrity:

   • In dealing with others: Honesty, justice, and authenticity become guiding principles because we have Jesus as our example.

   • In faith: We strive to align our behavior and beliefs with His truth.

4. An Anchor in Times of Crisis In moments of uncertainty or doubt, we can hold on to Jesus’ truth:

   • Comfort and security: Knowing that Jesus is the truth gives us peace when faced with suffering, loss, or difficult decisions.

   • Hope and perspective: His truth reminds us that our future is in God’s hands and that what He has promised is secure.

5. Relationship instead of Rules Truth is personified in Jesus. This means:

   • Faith is relationship: Being a Christian does not mean following a list of rules but inviting Jesus, the truth, into our lives and living with Him.

   • Growing in truth: Through prayer, Bible study, and discipleship, we learn to understand Jesus and His truth more deeply and apply it to our daily lives.

Conclusion

The connection of Jesus’ statement “I am the truth” with our daily lives shows us that truth is not an abstract concept but is experienced in relationship with Jesus. This truth gives us guidance, freedom, and peace; it calls us to a life of integrity and provides an anchor in turbulent times. When we base our lives on His truth, we find meaning, hope, and the assurance that we are on the right path.

Jesus is the truth that illuminates our lives, sets us free, and gives us direction.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-4-old-testament-prophecies-of-jesus-part-ii-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 4, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Romans Chapter 10

¹ Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

² For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

³ For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

⁴ For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.

⁵ For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them.

⁶ But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:)

⁷ Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.)

⁸ But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach;

⁹ That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

¹⁰ For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

¹¹ For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

¹² For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.

¹³ For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

¹⁴ How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

¹⁵ And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

¹⁶ But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

¹⁷ So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

¹⁸ But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.

¹⁹ But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.

²⁰ But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.

²¹ But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Romans chapter 10 is a central section in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. It addresses the question of righteousness before God and access to salvation, with Paul emphasizing the importance of faith over the law. Paul specifically refers to the situation of Israel, which, despite its zeal for God, has missed true righteousness because it seeks this through its own works instead of through faith. This text is a profound theological reflection that is also a passionate appeal to accept the Gospel.

Commentary

Paul’s Heartfelt Concern (Verses 1–4): Paul begins with his desire and prayer for the salvation of Israel. Although the people are eager in their search for God, they lack an understanding of true righteousness, which does not come from the law but through faith in Christ. Paul makes it clear: Christ is the culmination of the law—He has fulfilled the demands of the law so that righteousness now comes from faith.

The Righteousness of Faith (Verses 5–13): Paul contrasts righteousness from the law with the righteousness of faith. While the law demands human action, the righteousness of faith is a gift from God. Faith requires confession with the mouth and trust in the heart that Jesus is Lord and that God raised Him from the dead. This universal message applies equally to Jews and Gentiles, for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

The Necessity of Proclamation (Verses 14–17): Paul explains the central role of proclaiming the Gospel. Faith comes by hearing the message, and this message must be spread by preachers who are sent by God. He refers to Isaiah to show that accepting the Gospel is not self-evident, as not everyone believes the word of God.

Israel’s Refusal and God’s Revelation (Verses 18–21): Paul addresses Israel’s responsibility, which has heard the message of God but has not accepted it. He quotes Moses and Isaiah to show that God includes not only Israel but also the Gentiles in His plan of salvation. While the Gentiles, who did not seek God, found Him, Israel remains obstinate even though God extends His hands.

Summary

Romans chapter 10 describes the path to righteousness and salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that faith is not an achievement but a response to God’s grace. He shows the necessity of proclaiming the Gospel and the universal access to salvation for all who call on the name of the Lord. At the same time, Israel’s tragic refusal of grace is discussed, although God’s invitation remains tireless. This section encourages seeking righteousness through faith and spreading the saving message.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/4-11-2024-romans-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

10.3 I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life
Jesus: The Path, the Revelation, and the Source of Life

Read John 14:5–6. What did Thomas want to know about where Jesus would go? How did Jesus respond?

The words of Jesus in John 14:6 are among the most powerful statements in the New Testament. They answer the fundamental question about the way to God and the significance of Jesus’ role in salvation. Thomas’ question and Jesus’ response illuminate several central truths:

1. Thomas’ Question: A Natural Uncertainty

Thomas expresses what the disciples likely all felt: confusion about the destination Jesus was referring to and how they were to get there. His question shows an honest, human uncertainty: “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” (John 14:5). This uncertainty is often present in our lives as well when we seek direction, whether in faith or everyday life.

2. Jesus’ Answer: He Himself is the Way

Jesus turns Thomas’ question upside down by not pointing to a destination but to Himself: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). This statement has several dimensions:

• The Way: Jesus is not just a guide but the way itself. Through His teachings, life, death, and resurrection, He opens the access to God.

• The Truth: He is the revelation of God in a world marked by deception and sin. Through Him, we recognize who God truly is.

• The Life: Jesus is the source of eternal life. He grants not only physical life but also spiritual life in abundance.

3. The Way to the Father

Jesus shows that the way to God is not achieved through our own efforts, religious rituals, or philosophical insights. Access to the Father happens solely through Him. He explicitly states, “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This statement underscores the exclusivity of His work: He is the bridge between a fallen world and a holy God.

Conclusion

The words “I am the way, the truth, and the life” are an invitation to fully trust Jesus. They encourage us to align our life’s path with Him, seek our truth in His teachings, and find our lives through His closeness to God. Jesus’ response to Thomas shows that our greatest goal—the fellowship with God—is only possible through Him.

Read John 14:7–11. How did Jesus clarify Philip’s misunderstanding?

Philip’s request to see the Father is an expression of a deep human desire: to experience God directly and to understand Him. However, Jesus’ response shows that this desire is already fulfilled through Him. In these verses, Jesus clarifies Philip’s misunderstanding and reveals essential truths about His identity and His relationship with the Father.

1. Philip’s Request

Philip says, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us” (John 14:8). This request reflects the need to experience God visibly and tangibly. It is a plea for a clear revelation, often echoed in the history of Israel (cf. Deuteronomy 33:18-23). However, Philip does not yet realize that he already has the complete revelation of God in Jesus.

2. Jesus’ Response: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father”

Jesus gently rebukes Philip’s misunderstanding: “Philip, you have seen me, yet you do not know who I am” (John 14:9). He explains that He and the Father are perfectly one. Whoever sees Jesus sees God. This statement reveals:

• Jesus as the Revelation of the Father: In His character, words, and actions, God becomes visible (John 1:18).

• Unity Between Jesus and the Father: Jesus is not just an ambassador of God but God Himself in human form. His life is the living interpretation of the Father.

3. Faith Through Words and Works

Jesus urges the disciples to believe in Him—either based on His words or His works (John 14:10-11). The miracles Jesus performed testify to His divine nature and His close connection to the Father. His words, proclaiming the truth, demonstrate His authority as the one sent by the Father.

Conclusion

Philip’s request and Jesus’ response make it clear that God is perfectly revealed in Jesus. Whoever knows Jesus knows the Father. This truth encourages us to trust Jesus, recognize Him as the way to God, and live in His light. In Jesus, we encounter the truth and the life that securely lead us to the Father.

Why is it very comforting to recognize that Jesus is the best revelation we will have of God the Father?

1. God Becomes Accessible and Approachable in Jesus Jesus shows us that God is not distant, unreachable, or abstract. Through His life, teachings, and works, God becomes understandable and tangible to us. He meets us in a way that humans can comprehend. This knowledge brings comfort because it shows that God truly knows us, loves us, and has come into our world to save us.

2. A Visible Image of God’s Nature In Jesus, we see God’s character: His love, patience, forgiveness, justice, and mercy. Everything Jesus said and did reflects the Father (John 14:9). This revelation comforts us because we know that God is not a punishing judge but a loving Father who cares for His children.

3. Jesus Personally Conveys God’s Love On the cross, Jesus demonstrated the depth of God’s love for us. He bore our sins and redeemed us. Knowing that God loves us so much that He sent His Son (John 3:16) gives us hope and security, especially in difficult times.

4. God Understands Our Suffering Jesus lived as a human and experienced the challenges, pains, and temptations of this world (Hebrews 4:15). Therefore, we know that God not only sees our suffering but also understands it. This comfort helps us find strength and trust in tough moments.

5. The Assurance of Eternal Life Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Through Him, we have access to the Father and the promise of eternal life. This assurance comforts us because it gives us a firm hope beyond the limits of this life.

6. No Further Searching Needed In Jesus, the revelation of God is complete. We do not need to seek additional signs or proofs to know God. Knowing that Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God gives us security and peace in our faith.

Conclusion

Recognizing that Jesus is the best revelation of God comforts us because in Him we find everything we need to know about God: His love, His plan for us, and His desire to have us with Him. It shows us that God not only understands us but also actively seeks to save us and grant us an eternal future with Him.

The Statement of Jesus in John 14:6 is not only a theological truth but also a practical invitation that shapes our daily lives and our faith. Here are the central connections:

1. Jesus as the Way: Guidance for Our Lives

In everyday life, we often seek the right path, whether in career decisions, relationships, or our faith. Jesus’ words show that He Himself is our guide:

• In Faith: Jesus leads us to God without us relying on our own efforts or wisdom. He is the bridge that connects us with the Father.

• In Daily Life: His teachings and example help us live with integrity, love, and justice. By following Him, we find direction in an often confusing world.

2. Jesus as the Truth: Security in a World of Uncertainties

In a time when truth is often relativized, Jesus’ statement is an anchor for our faith:

• In Faith: Jesus reveals God’s nature to us. Through Him, we understand the absolute truth about God’s love, grace, and justice.

• In Daily Life: His word provides us with stability and clarity when we are surrounded by conflicting information or moral dilemmas.

3. Jesus as the Life: Fulfillment and Hope

• Eternal Life: Jesus gives us the hope of eternal life with God that transcends the limitations of this earthly life.

• Life in Daily Life: His life inspires us to live in joy and abundance, regardless of our circumstances. He gives us meaning and purpose, even in difficult times.

4. Connection with God in Daily Life

Jesus says, “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This statement shows that our access to God is not based on our performance or knowledge but solely through our relationship with Jesus. This connection shapes:

• Our Prayer Life: We can pray with confidence because Jesus has paved the way to the Father.

• Our Perspective: Knowing that Jesus is our mediator, we can approach God with full trust and without fear.

5. A Life of Trust

The assurance that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life encourages us to trust Him in all aspects of our lives:

• Making Decisions: His example and teachings help us make decisions that honor God.

• In Difficult Times: Jesus gives us comfort and confidence when we feel lost or uncertain.

Conclusion

The statement “I am the way, the truth, and the life” is an invitation to place Jesus at the center of our lives. It shows us that in Him we find everything we need for our faith and daily living: guidance, security, and hope. By turning to Him, we can live with confidence, peace, and joy in a world full of uncertainties.

Jesus is the way that leads us, the truth that frees us, and the life that fulfills us.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-10-3-i-am-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/