Lenten Devotion: Jesus’ Teaching is Truth (John 7:14-24)
Day 15 – 21 Mar 2025
“Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.” John 7:24
The Jews dismissed Jesus and his teaching because he did not fit into their idea of Messiah and teacher. They saw him as unqualified because he was one “without having been taught” ie. not had formal education in the Scriptures by understudying respected Rabbis.
But Jesus knew the Scriptures better than anyone. He is the ultimate expositor of Scripture. Jesus used Scripture to rebuke and resist the devil when the latter tempted him in the desert.
Jesus stated that his authority came directly from God. The man who speaks from himself seeks glory to himself, but Jesus taught the truth of Scripture and sought the glory of God. Jesus was focused on doing the will of the Father, and this included teaching the truth of Scripture. So we need to recognise Jesus’ teaching as authoritative, and to be well versed in God’s word, so as to know what is true and what is false.
Being knowledgeable about the truth is important whether it be in spiritual or secular matters. In these times, there are so much fake news and information and scams. These false claims and information can cause much harm and loss. We need to be cautious, validate if true before taking action.
In the course of my work, I have to mediate staff disputes. Listening to staff A complaining about staff B, it seemed so clear that staff B was at fault. But listening to the Staff B’s side of the story revealed a different account. So we always need to listen to both sides to get the complete facts.
When we are at a crossroad and not sure of the truth that is presented before us, we need to
- Examine the facts
- Hear what God’s word says
- Pray for God to guide us through the Holy Spirit
- Seek the advice of godly and wise friends and leaders.
And if you come to a decision that is not as the world expect, are you willing to follow Christ? Remain faithful, as when we persevere through adversity, we bring glory to God.
Tan Ai Ling🙏✝️