#13 – Knowing God Better – John 8 still continued

You know the common view of Jesus? Kind, patient, meek, mild? That is true sometimes. But not in John 8.

Jesus really puts it all on the table, and tells the Pharisees what he sees in their hearts.

Jesus just got done telling them that sin enslaves them. But if they will believe in Jesus, he will set them free.

The Pharisees are really put off by that, claiming to be descendents of Abraham, enslaved to no one! Jesus counters, saying if they were children of Abraham, they would do what Abraham did…and listen to God. So, Jesus brings into question who they really belong to.

Starting at John 8:42…

42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.

Q – Now Jesus pulls out all the stops. Summarize what Jesus says is true of them (see below):
A –

43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.

Then Jesus asks a question of them (of his enemies) that no average person would normally be able to ask:

46 Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin?

Then Jesus finishes the logical progression of his message:

And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”

You know how they reacted? They began calling him names! No kidding. They called him a Samaritan (a racist slur). And then said Jesus was possessed by a demon (a religious slur).

Jesus does not back down. He says a few things, then this:

51 I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”

They immediately retort:

53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”

Here is how Jesus responds:

56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”
57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”

Q – Based on Jesus’ answer below, what do you think he is saying about himself? Who is he saying that he is?
A –

58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I Am!”

Here is their reaction:

59 At that point they picked up stones to throw at him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.

Remember the phrase, “I Am” is reserved for only God. So, once again, Jesus is clearly putting forth his identity.

Before Abraham was born, Jesus existed. Eternally. “I am.”

Those who say that Jesus never claimed to be God, have never read the gospels!

Next study is John 9, which is pretty comical. Even sarcastic. Looking forward to it with you!

Sincerely,

Marilyn Adamson
director of EveryStudent.com
and StartingwithGod.com