How Can We Know?

By Lisa Supp

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”—John 14:6 (NKJV)

Jesus’ words in today’s verse come on the heels of a preparatory statement given to His disciples. Words of hope and comfort. “Do not be troubled,” He had told them. “I will prepare a place for you in My Father’s house; where I’m going, I will receive you, and you will know the way” (vs. 1, paraphrased). 

Thomas responded, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way? (vs. 5) 

I’m so glad Thomas asked this question. 

So many people hold a deceived understanding of what we must “do” to get to heaven—just be a good person. But Jesus clearly tells us that He is the way, He is the truth, He is the life. David Guzik writes, “In light of soon events, this declaration was a paradox. Jesus’ way would be the cross; He would be convicted by blatant liars; His body would soon lie lifeless in a tomb. Because He took that way, He is the way to God; because He did not contest the lies we can believe He is the truth; because He was willing to die He becomes the channel of resurrection—the life to us.”

The words “I am” were spoken centuries prior by God to Moses (Exodus 3:14). As Moses questioned the Lord as to what His name was, God’s response was that He is all-sufficient, in fact utterly self-sufficient, self-directed, and eternal: “I AM WHO I AM.” He was all Moses needed in any situation at any given time. And still, He is to us.

It is not by coincidence that Jesus chose these words to reveal Himself. “I am the way”—sufficient direction; “the truth”—sufficient truth; “the life”—sufficient eternality. He was saying He is God and affirms that to Philip moments later that “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). 

Thomas had his answer. Days later, when he touched the holes in Jesus’ hands, did those words echo in his heart? All at once he grasped that Jesus’ atonement was the way; His fulfillment of prophecy as a Savior was truth revealed; His life given so sinners could have eternal life with the Father.  

Doubt dismissed, Thomas cried, “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28 NKJV). Have you cried those words?

“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.”—Acts 4:12 (NASB)

DIG: If you live a good life and do good, will you go to heaven?

DISCOVER: If the above question is true, what is the purpose of Christ’s atonement?

DO: If you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please let your doubt lead you to seek and see what the Lord will show you—and what He will be to you.