To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
In this verse, Jesus gives us a very simple formula: If you believe you will know the truth and be set free.
What is the truth? I love this definition from John McArthur:
“Here’s a simple definition drawn from what the Bible teaches: Truth is that which is consistent with the mind, will, character, glory, and being of God.”
Set free from what?
Set free from sin, which separates us from God. But not just “set free”. Those who have faith in Jesus have a permanent place in God’s family. (John 8:34-36).
This week we have been asking questions about the power of faith and how it is instrumental in believing God’s truth. Some of us are very familiar with the Bible verses and themes we discussed. For some it’s new information.
Think about how and where your story with Jesus started. Maybe you’re wondering how to be set free.
How do I actually believe, as Jesus meant it?
For all of us, it starts with accepting Jesus into our hearts in a prayer like this:
“Dear God,
I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness.
I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that He died
for my sin and that you raised Him to life.
I want to trust Him as my Savior and follow Him as Lord,
from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will.
I pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.” (https:billygraham.org)
If this is your first time praying that prayer, welcome to the family!
Speaking personally, I prayed that prayer 39 years ago when, for the first time, I knew in my heart that God loved me and had a plan for my life. That expression of faith set me free to begin understanding God’s truth.
Find someone in the next few days and tell them the story of your faith. It could be anyone. Just tell them the story of how you first believed and accepted Jesus into your heart. Saying it out loud will help you remember “why” you asked Jesus into your heart and “what” God’s truth has meant in your life.
PRAY
God, thank You for today, and I pray that, by Your Spirit, You would lead me to someone to share my story with in the next few days. Thank You most of all for Jesus and that through Him I’m part of Your family. It’s in Jesus’ name that I pray, Amen.
