SCRIPTURE: John 18:19-24
“I have spoken openly to the world.” (John 18:19)
God does not want us sneaking about in the world.
He wants us to live and speak the truth openly, for all to see and hear.
I’m not talking about fighting for the truth of christian theologies and doctrines…
But the life-changing truth of God’s justice, mercy, peace and love… as seen in Jesus.
Let this truth speak for itself in how we live and love and serve.
Some people will be drawn to the truth of Jesus, but others will resist it.
“But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” (John 18:23)
Living this truth publicly will unsettle some people, some may get antagonistic.
Even then we need to respond with grace, with mercy, with forgiveness, with love.
It won’t always be easy, but this truth is worth living for, worth dying for.
This is the truth that will rise victorious in the end!
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, if I am to be judged by the world, let it be for being radical for You and Your love. May people experience the wonder of Your truth as lived through me.
Observation/Application
Jesus is questioned by the religious leaders who are breaking the law. No witnesses are brought forward. Jesus was condemned already by His opposition. They knew about His teaching for most certainly they also had been in the temple or synagogues. Those appointed to uphold the law abused the law and their authority to suit their on purposes. They thought they were in control.
Open my eyes Lord that I may hear You loud and clear for You have given me Your Word. You have shown Your teaching – Love God. Love man. Help me to put that into practice each day. Help me to be a living letter of Christ living in me.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master, today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me, I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine.
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit ’till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me.