February 22

Introduction

John 8:31–59: Jesus’s opponents claim Abraham as their father (verse 39), and today’s reading focuses on the debate over their claim as children of Abraham and Jesus’s claim that God is his Father. In this confrontation, Jesus declares his opponents to be children of the devil, and the religious leaders accuse Jesus of having a demon in him.

Today’s Key Verse: John 8:31, 32

So Jesus said to those who believed in him, “If you obey my teaching, you are really my disciples; you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”

Reflect

Reread verses 31 and 32. What does being set free by the truth that Jesus speaks of mean to you? In today’s reading, Jesus says, “Before Abraham was born, ‘I Am’” (verse 58). God’s divine name, “I AM,” was first revealed to Moses (Exodus 3:14), and Jesus’s use of the name, as noted in yesterday’s reading (8:23–29), connects him to aspects of God’s nature and so identifies himself with God. How does Jesus’s use of the divine name underscore his argument with his opponents? What does Jesus’s use of the divine name mean to you?

Pray

Lord Jesus, your Word is truth, and you have promised eternal life to all who obey your teachings. Teach me to be obedient to your will and give glory and honor to you. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 9:1–12: Jesus heals a man born blind.