Today’s reading: Lev 14:1–57, John 8:31–59, Song 7:1–4

Today’s theme: The reward of true discipleship

Leviticus 14:1–57

All those offering

one for a sin offering and the other for a burnt offering, along with a grain offering. And the priest shall make atonement before the LORD for him who is being cleansed. Leviticus 14:31 (ESV)

Thank God we no longer have to go through all of this. Jesus came and fulfilled all of this for us, by dying for our sins on the cross, rising from the dead and then ascending to heaven to be our High Priest. Jesus makes atonement for us through His sacrifice on the cross.

John 8:31–59

The reward of true discipleship

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” They answered him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that you say, ‘You will become free’?” John 8:31–33 (ESV)

The evidence (staying in God’s word) and reward (knowing the truth, being free) of true discipleship.

The slavery of the will to sin

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. John 8:34–35 (ESV)

In today’s world we often talk about and exalt “free will” when in fact, in sin our will is bound (not free), to a slave master which is sin itself. The act of sin actively enslaves.

Sent by the Father

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. John 8:42 (ESV)

It was the Father that sent the Son. Jesus submitted to the Father’s plan from before the world began.

Adopted to hear and understand

Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.” John 8:47 (ESV)

Unless we are chosen by God we cannot understand Gods word or the teaching of Jesus. No amount of convincing will work without the help of the Holy Spirit. We believe the Bible not because we are wise or were convinced, but because God adopted us and made us His children.

Jesus, The I AM

Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” John 8:58 (ESV)

Jesus’ bold claim to be God incarnate. The “I AM” is one of the most sacred names of God.

Most of the above post is a copy of the original notes from the same date in 2014.

Additional resources

The Gospel Coalition on John 8