The Word that Transforms
John 8:31-59
Abiding in Jesus should change us. Reading His word, acting in His good works… All of this should lead us to transformed hearts and minds. Looking at our sin, relinquishing it, and walking in a new way should be the desire of every follower of Jesus. When we read about the disciples, we get an array of backgrounds and walks of life. When Jesus is speaking to the Jews, He is speaking to them as if some are followers and others are not. They all would assume that they are followers of Jesus. If you look at their ‘spiritual resume,’ they may have checked every box… But are good deeds the only thing that can save you? Is being a rule follower or someone who does everything right merit salvation?
They may walk in good deeds, but are they walking in truth? Are they living in the freedom of Christ? Jesus uses this time to call them up to ways they may be walking in lies:
“Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God, and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but he sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. You are of your father, the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. He speaks out of his character when he lies, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:42-44).
The result of being a transformed follower of Christ is love. We are called to love God and love one another. If we don’t, we could still be walking in darkness and a slave to our sins. We are trying to make our way when Jesus already did so. We can let go of the things that have weight and keep us in bondage; Jesus is strong enough to endure those things. We follow a God of truth and life; it should change every part of us for His glory. Where do we find this source of energy? In His word! The Bible is God-breathed and gives us hope that we will not perish. Imagine a scenario where you're tired of your sin. There is a judge, and all the evidence points to “guilty.” Now, picture an innocent man running in and approaching the judge’s stand with ease, taking full ownership of your crime. He takes your punishment, and you get to be free forever. Freedom comes from forgiveness, love, and sacrifice. Jesus did all those things for you so that you no longer have to live under the weight of your sin but instead can walk about free for all eternity.
Jesus actually did this. He healed people who were transformed right then and there (for example, the woman at the well in John 4), and there were others who received the healing but still continued to sin (David, Judas, Peter, etc.). The process of sanctification is done through the guidance of God’s Word and the Holy Spirit in you. Don’t turn away in the hard moments of transformation, but cling to the love of Jesus, who took on your punishment and gave you freedom.
