John 8:31-36 (NRSV)
Read John 8:31-36 on biblegateway.com
Verse 31Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; Verse 32and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." Verse 33They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, 'You will be made free'?" Verse 34Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. Verse 35The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. Verse 36So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.
Devotion
Jesus says, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” By faith, we are no longer slaves to sin and death. The Son makes us free as we believe and trust in him, who is the Truth. We have been set free from fear, for in Christ we know that even death is not the last word. We are free to serve the One who rules the world in love, and who loves us perfectly. We are free to serve one another.
The church is called to be the community that proclaims. It is shaped by the truth revealed in Christ. We may not always agree on what faithful discipleship requires; even so, we look to Christ as we seek the Spirit’s leading, with humility, love, and mutual forbearance.
Prayer
Spirit of Truth, enable us to continue in your word, and to follow as true disciples. Amen.