Thoughts on the Gospel of John (60) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

I know that you are Abraham's descendants, but you seek to kill me, because my word has no place in you. I speak what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have seen with your father. They answered and said to him, Abraham is our father. Jesus said to them, If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham.
John 8:37-39.

Thoughts on the Gospel of John (60)
How proud the religious Jews in those days were of being the descendants of Abraham! But however advantageous natural descent may be for respect and prosperity in this world, it offers little security for the hereafter. One may have descended from Abraham, yet not be his "child", having no resemblance to him. Or one could be of Abraham's progeny, yet be God's worst enemy. Or even clearer: one could call Abraham father, yet be a child of the devil at the same time. That was what the Lord meant, when he told His enemies, "You do what you have seen with your father". Any spiritual relationship with Abraham was unrecognisable among the Lord's opponents. The "works of Abraham" were works of faith and obedience. He acted, trusting God and His Word, while they would not allow the sayings of Jesus to penetrate their hearts, which pride and hostility had hardened like paths trodden underfoot. The seed of the Word of God found no place of entry.

This is precisely what distinguishes a true believer from one who merely makes an outward profession. The former receives "with meekness the implanted word" (James 1:21) and preserves it in his heart (cf. Psalm 119:11). The Word of God has a place of trust, honour and love and reveals His guidance.

(to be continued next Sunday)

Today's reading: Isaiah 23:1-24:13 · Acts 27:27-44