Hearing Hard Truth

Scripture – John 5:19-23: Jesus gave them this answer: “I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does. For the Father loves the Son and shows him all he does. Yes, to your amazement he will show him even greater things than these. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) I can see why Jesus got in so much trouble with the leaders of the established faith. Here they’re already upset because He referred to Himself as God’s son. Now He drives that point home more clearly than ever. He pretty much claims all of God’s authority for Himself. He points out that honor due to God (the Father) is also due to Him (the Son). I can’t imagine what it was like to hear such talk coming from a man – even one who had done so many miraculous things. I notice, also, how the “church” people have such a different response to Jesus than those outside the church.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Jesus seemed to save His hardest words for the religious people. He gave them this truth about Himself knowing they would not want to hear it. I will watch my language today. With God’s help, I will speak the truth plainly.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, give me a clearer understanding of who you are today. Give me your words to share. Give me a gentle spirit from which to speak truth this day. And please, keep my heart and mind open to your truth rather than my own ideas and opinions.