Jesus therefore said to those Jews who had believed him, “If you remain in my word, then you are truly my disciples. John 8:31 WEB
These words of Jesus clarify the difference between those who profess a shallow faith in Christ and those who truly submit to the Lord. Obedience to the word and will of God is essential to the true follower. Those who truly believe devote themselves to living lives that are consistent with the lessons Jesus taught.
Jesus said in John 14:21, “One who has my commandments, and keeps them, that person is one who loves me. One who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and will reveal myself to him. WEB” Similarly, Jesus says in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments. WEB”
The Will of My Father
When the Lord says “remain in my word,” Jesus encourages each of us to follow the commandments of God. Beyond simple belief, life saving faith in Christ hinges upon obedience to his word. As Jesus says in Matthew 7:21, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. WEB”
A disciple is a student of a specific teacher. Jesus had many disciples beyond the twelve he hand selected for his ministry. These mostly Jewish men and women believed in the Lord and closely followed his teaching. With his statement “If you remain in my word, then you are truly my disciples,” Jesus makes clear the devotion, submission, and obedience required by God for those who seek after him.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for revealing yourself to the world through your Son, Jesus Christ. Give me wisdom to apply the words of Christ to my daily living. Give me strength to do your will. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Into the Sky
