Day 33
Today’s reading: John 8:31-59
Actions speak louder
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Actions speak louder 〰️
Reflections
Contrary to popular belief today, we can actually discern the depth of someone’s faith by their actions. While it is true that we are saved by grace and not by works, the result of that saving grace in our lives is a transformed existence that produces good works. A truly yielded person to God will always bear good fruit.
In John 8:39 (NLT), Jesus directly responds to the claim of the people as Abraham's children, saying, "If you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example." Similarly, if we claim to be children of God, our lives must reflect the ways and values of our Heavenly Father. It’s not enough to simply proclaim with our mouths that we are believers if our actions contradict that declaration.
When we reject Jesus and His word, it reveals the condition of our hearts. Disobedience to God’s word leads to death, while obedience and acceptance of His word lead to eternal life. Our actions reveal our true relationship with God, and they speak louder than any words we say.
Study Questions
In John 8, Jesus gives us insight into the nature of the devil. What characteristics of Satan are evident in this passage?
According to Jesus in the passage, what are the key characteristics of the children of God?
What did Jesus mean when He said, “...he shall never see death” in John 8:51? How does this statement compare to Genesis 2:17 about death?
How many times does Jesus make a claim to be God in John 8? Compare His statements to God’s declaration in Exodus 3:14. Why did these claims provoke such a strong reaction from the Jewish leaders?
Highlight
“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.”” John 8:31-32 ESV
