March 17

“I am the way and the truth and the life.” —JOHN 14:6

The Bible is not simply a book of chapters and verses, but has a narrative that runs all the way through, and tells a story which involves us all. It’s the story of creation, of humanity’s separation from God, humanity’s reconciliation to God, and of life that goes beyond this age as we know it. From beginning to end, Scripture centers on Jesus Christ. 

John 1:1-4 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God….. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men.” Jesus Christ is not only the Creator, but Sustainer of the universe and all life within it. He came to earth, clothed in humanity, so that by His work on the cross and His resurrection, we may know the one truth that will reconcile us to God and set us free. 

Jesus Christ is not simply the teacher of truth, but is the embodiment of truth. Everything that derives from the truth, He preaches, and the truth His word reveals is embodied in Him. The goal of the Christian life is to be Christ-like, but with new waves and new winds continually blowing in, we need to make sure that what is being demonstrated and taught is Christ-like. Every manifestation of the Holy Spirit will contribute to Christ-likeness, and be consistent with biblical doctrine. 

That which is true always moves us closer to Christ and Christ-likeness. Is what we’re being taught consistent with His nature, His goodness, kindness and love? Is it consistent with Scripture and does it ring true in our hearts? In order to know what is true, it is essential we spend time not only listening to expositions of the Bible, but reading the Bible, studying it, and meditating on it. 

David writes, “I lift up my hands to your commands, which I love, and I meditate on your decrees” (Psalm 119:48). In verse 105, he says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Our knowledge of God comes through the Word of God, and is not simply a set of doctrines and propositional statements, but becomes experiential as we allow the Holy Spirit to interpret and bring alive the truths of Scripture into our hearts. Christ is the Truth, and the goal of the Christian life is that we know Him and go on knowing Him. 

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I pray for a deeper work of your Spirit in conforming me to your likeness. You are the Truth that sets me free, and I thank You, Lord. 

TO REFLECT UPON: How has my knowledge of Christ increased since I first became a Christian?