44. Jesus supports his claim
– John 5:31-47
John 5:36 “I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the very work that the Father has given me to finish, and which I am doing, testifies that the Father has sent me.”
Jesus claimed to be equal with God, to be the source of life, to give eternal life, and to judge sin. But, how can you believe by just his word? Talk is cheap. But, Jesus wasn’t the only one claiming these statements about himself. John, a man that was filled with the Holy Spirit at birth, testified for Jesus. More so, Jesus lived his life according to what he claimed. He fulfilled all of the Old Testament prophecies. That is over 300 prophecies. He also did the works of God on the earth and performed miracles. He healed the sick. He gave life to the deceased. He quieted the demons. He was completely human and completely God. He is the only man to ever live a sinless life. He was sacrificed for our debts and conquered the grave. His works could only come from the Father. He backed up what he said with his actions.
John 5:39-40 “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have eternal life.”
Salvation does not come from knowledge. It is possible to study the Bible all your life and not have salvation. You must not only know the Scriptures, but also apply them to your life. Don’t be like the religious leaders and miss Christ. They knew the teachings but failed to see the Messiah to whom the Scriptures pointed. Do not simply let God’s teaching go in one ear and out the other. Meditate on his words and allow them to mold your heart. Let Christ into your life.
John 5:41-44 “I do not accept praise from men, but I know you… How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from only God?”
Whose praise do you seek? Do you want attention from those around you? Do you want people to acknowledge your greatness? Do you seek approval from bosses? Do you seek admiration from your parents? Stop seeking the praises of the world. They do not define you. Jesus ignored the praises of men. The only praise that matters comes from God. Seek to please him alone. Everything you do, do it to honor God. You were not made for this world. Don’t let it have a hold of you. The opinions of men do not matter. God loves you and is proud of you. That is all that matters. Live your life to bring him glory here on earth.
