Do you ever wonder if sometimes we overcomplicate the whole business of what it means to be a Christian? We get a beautiful description from Christ in chapter 8 of true discipleship.
Did you catch it in verse 31? “If you continue in my word, you really are my disciple.” To be a disciple is to seek to be in the Word of God. This is less about the amount of hours we have on our Bible reading log (though that certainly is important!) and more about how much our life truly resides within the Word of God.
This brings to mind the way that kids can be famous for their inquisitive nature, constant inquiries, and ceaseless asking. Kids are not trying to pester, they are trying to talk and be in communication with their parent!
Allow me to be heavy handed in my comparison: what would it look like for us to seek a word from God the way so many of our young ones seek words from us? How earnestly do we pursue the Word of God, both as a literal book to be read and dwelt in and as an abstract area for our lives to rest in?
“God, I pray that as we read this chapter full of Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees and promises of hope and freedom, we might be able to recognize the incredible truth we have access to. Like the Jews of Jesus’ day who had to wrestle with their identity that got in the way of following Jesus, may we be willing to lay down whatever it may cost us to pursue truth and freedom in Christ.”
Reflection Questions:
What we think of a “disciple” what is the image that comes to mind?
What would it look like for us to “continue in Jesus’ Word?”
Why is it difficult to make space in our lives for God’s Word, in both time and authority?
God’s Word is truth, and truth sets us free. What does that freedom in Christ look like?
How can we be examples of freedom to others who still carry the burden of being slaves to sin?