True Disciples Abide in The Word
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | May 8, 2024 | John 8:31-32
KEY VERSE:
Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31-32 (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
In John 8:31-32, Jesus teaches about the importance of abiding in His word to be true disciples. This passage emphasises the transformative power of God's word in the lives of believers. We must abide in His word if we will be Jesus’ disciples. To follow Jesus – the Word made flesh – is to abide in His word. To abide in his word means to live in, dwell in, and make your home in his word. It means welcoming it, being at home with it, and living with it so continuously that it becomes part of the believer’s life, a permanent influence and stimulus in every fresh advance in goodness and holiness.
We prove ourselves to be His disciples by knowing the truth, and God works His freedom in our lives through His truth. The freedom Jesus referred to is not merely the result of a scholarly quest for truth; it stems from living according to His teachings and being a devoted follower. The sense of freedom one experiences through Jesus is unparalleled. It’s not something you can purchase with money, gain through status, achieve with hard work, or compare to anything else. Unfortunately, not every Christian enjoys this freedom, which is only attainable through faithfully abiding by God’s word and embracing discipleship under Jesus. The statement emphasises that being a true disciple of Jesus requires abiding in His word. True discipleship is not merely about believing in Jesus but also about living according to His teachings.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
True discipleship is marked by a deep, personal relationship with Jesus, characterised by obedience to His word. Knowing and abiding in the truth of God's word sets us free from the bondage of sin and worldly influences. This freedom enables us to live as God intends, reflecting His character and glory.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, thank you for your word, which guides me and transforms me into a true disciple of Jesus. Help me to abide in your word daily, that I may know the truth and experience the freedom that comes from following your Son. May your word dwell richly in me, shaping me into the image of Christ. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: ABIDE
The word "abide" in Greek is "μένετε" (menete), derived from "μένω" (menō), which conveys the idea of remaining, dwelling, or staying.
In the Greek text, it is used to express a condition that is not yet realized but is seen as a real possibility. It suggests a call to action, urging one to stay committed to Jesus' teachings as a sign of genuine discipleship. The concept of abiding is central to the Johannine understanding of the relationship between the believer and Jesus. It suggests a continuous, living connection that goes beyond mere belief.
To abide in Jesus' word means more than just casual acquaintance or occasional interaction; It involves dwelling in the truth of his word, allowing it to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Jesus emphasizes that true discipleship involves not only hearing his word but also living it out daily. Those who abide in his word demonstrate genuine allegiance to him and experience the transformative power of his truth in their lives.
Reflections:
How does the act of abiding in Jesus’ word influence your daily decisions and the way you live your life?
Comentarios