Lon Erickson

John 7:6-18

Friday, March 2

So Jesus answered them, "My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority. The one who speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory; but the one who seeks the glory of him who sent him is true, and in him there is no falsehood." – John 7:16-18 (ESV)

As Jesus approached his final days, he again faced those skeptical of his ministry. It wouldn't be a surprise if Jesus thought "not again". But, just as he'd done before, he had an answer to their questions. He told them that his teaching was from God himself. His answer contained an undeniable truth and a warning.

The truth is that Jesus is from God, the source of all truth and authority. This relationship confirmed that his teachings were true.

He also warned his skeptics that they should not trust teachings based on any other authority, including those of respected rabbis. This undoubtedly gave them even more heartburn and rather than learn from Jesus' teachings, they likely strengthened their resolve to kill him.

May we continue to learn to seek to do God's will and to turn to Jesus as a source of help.

Questions for reflection:

• When have you heard teachings that you have questioned?
• How can we know which teachings to trust?

Prayer:

Jesus, please help me to know when a message is true. Please also help me to know God's will for me. I pray in your name. Amen