Day 26: Who Is Jesus?

Who is Jesus?

Chapters 8, 9, and 10 are some of the most thought provoking chapters in the book of John. There is this common idea contained within these passages dealing with who Jesus is. Here in chapter 8 Jesus sets down the central theme. Who are you going to follow?

The three chapters are divided into at least four parts.

Part one deals with Jesus the Light. Here Jesus teaches us that he is the light of the world, sent from God to call people out of the darkness of sin. It is always true that we can see much better in the light than in the darkness. What Jesus does in our lives is illuminate our darkness so we can see our sin and turn toward Him.

Part two deals with Jesus as the Truth. Jesus teaches that when we sin we become slaves to sin. Yet, when we know the truth we will be set free. Sin enslaves. His truth sets us free. Here is the beauty of this part. Jesus says of Himself, “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Part three states that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. We are reminded that those who know His voice He calls by name and leads them out. What a wonderful picture of Jesus caring for each of us individually and as a total flock. He knows us each by name, because we are in relationship with him, we know His voice. He leads us because He is the Shepherd and in Him we are safe.

Part four is my favorite. Jesus and the Father are one. Jesus is clear about this. He has come to do the will of His Father. In fact, He says that He and the Father are one--0ne in purpose, one in eternity, and one in love. Everything about Jesus is also about God. What does this mean for us? Jesus answers that in Chapter 10:28, 29. “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”