Are they Words of Truth?
© 2017 by Tom Boynton (editing by Kathy Boynton)
The other day an acquaintance took issue with one of my articles. That’s O.K. because I’m not infallible. However, when I discovered the nature of his objection, I was surprised. His disagreement was not with my words but with the words of Jesus. A pleasant conversation ensued and I believe our long-time cordial relationship continues.
This event caused me to wonder why anyone would question the words of Jesus. Scripture clearly shows that Jesus, the Messiah, is God. Thus, His words are without error. It is our responsibility to recognize them as truth. In fact, He is truth. He once told His disciple, Thomas,
“…I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)
Scripture also makes it clear that His redeemed ones will love and obey Him. Jesus said,
“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15)
He also said,
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” (John10:27-28).
This life He gives is based on His death, burial, and resurrection for the sins of His people. But those who don’t love Him are not His people. Paul, the apostle of Jesus, used the word “anathema” (meaning cursed) to describe them.
“If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.” (1 Corinthians 16:22).
This curse can’t apply to true Christians because they’ll never perish.
We don’t have a higher authority by which to evaluate Jesus’ words. His words are the highest authority. They are the standard by which everything else must be evaluated. After His resurrection, Jesus proclaimed His total authority to His disciples. He said,
“…All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Do God’s words command your highest honor and obedience, or do you still need to be saved?
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