The Words that Judges
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 29, 2024 | John 12:47-50
KEY VERSE:
There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day. John 12:48 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Jesus makes clear that he speaks God's truth. What we do with that truth has eternal consequences and has both eternal and present-day benefits if we obey. In John 12:47-50, Jesus speaks about His mission and the judgment that comes from rejecting His words. He emphasises that He came not to judge the world but to save it, yet His words will serve as a standard for judgment on the last day. This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of Jesus' teachings and their eternal implications.
Jesus’ words are not just wise teachings but divine commandments from the Father. He highlights that rejecting His words is equivalent to denying the One who sent Him. The authority and weight of Jesus' words are profound because they are not merely human opinions but the very words of God, intended to bring life and salvation. Jesus reiterates that His mission was to bring salvation, not condemnation. However, He clarifies that there will be a future judgment based on how people respond to His message. His words will be the measure against which lives are judged. Therefore, embracing His teachings is essential for receiving eternal life and avoiding judgment. While obedience may not be a popular concept in modern culture, Jesus reminds us that obeying his teaching is vital. We should listen to them as if our eternity depends on what we do with them - because it does.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
As followers of Jesus, we are called to take His words seriously, understanding that they carry the authority of God Himself. Evaluate your life in light of Jesus' teachings and align your actions with His truth. Pray for courage and urgency to share His message with others, as their eternal destiny hinges on their response to His words.
PRAYER:
Holy and loving Father, thank you for revealing your will in human words taught to us by Jesus. Open my mind to understand Jesus' teaching more completely and open my heart to accept those words more willingly as I commit to live by Jesus' words in all that I do, empowered by your Spirit. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: JUDGE
The Greek word for "judge" is "κρίνω" (krinō), meaning to separate, distinguish, or make a decision, implying legal judgment, forming an opinion, or discerning.
In John 12:48, "judge" emphasizes Jesus' words as the standard of judgment for those who reject Him. This illustrates the gravity of rejecting Jesus' teachings and the inevitable accountability before God, consistent with John's theme of spiritual discernment and responsibility.
Jesus being entrusted with judgment is also seen in John 5:22, Matthew 12:36 highlights accountability for words spoken, and Romans 2:16 notes God judging people's secrets through Christ.
Reflections:
Reflect on how you respond to Jesus' teachings. Are there aspects you find challenging? How does knowing His words will judge you affect your daily life and decisions?
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