Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. John 5:24 KJV
Today's extract follows the healing of the lame man at the pool of Bethesda. The people of Jesus' day just didn't realise who He was, and the familiarity that came from knowing his family lineage and history was their greatest undoing. Can the same be said of me today? Have I become so used to the tokens that his move does not impress me anymore? Have I become so accustomed to him that I have lost the sense of reverence and awe for Him?
As is His custom, Jesus takes his time to teach those who will listen about the power and consequences behind their response and reaction to Him. You see, man's greatest decision is what He does with Jesus. Let's check out what Jesus says: note that it does not stop at just hearing; it goes with believing on Jesus also. Many are content with hearing and enjoying the stories; not too many go the extra mile to believe.
You cannot believe without hearing, so the first step is seeking out the right information. When I believe, I accept I cannot help or save myself, and I am putting my complete trust in Jesus. And the benefits of that belief is immediate; the bible says I have everlasting life. So, the faith I have is good for both the present and the future life. That faith answers today's questions as well as the ultimate eternal question. I have passed on from death to life, simply because I have true life living inside of me.
It is very clear that these are the last days. Sin is increasing and becoming more complex; we keep seeking new ways to hurt one another, yet the standard of life remains the same: God is seeking men who will come to Him, accept his life on offer and walk into the fullness of his life, which is good for both this present earthly phase as well as the life to come. What are you waiting for? His time of favour is here.
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