John 8:30-32, "As he spake these words, many believed on him.  Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."  

It is exciting to hear of people placing their faith in God by believing on His Son Jesus. This, however, is only a beginning point.  As Jesus revealed Himself to others through His preaching, some believed on Him, while others rejected and ridiculed Him. Verse 30 speaks of the place where our journey with God begins.  It always begins by believing on Jesus.  One believes on Jesus only as He is convinced of the claims of Jesus.  Is He God's Son?  Is He the Savior of mankind?  Did He live a sinless life?  Did He rise from the dead?  Is He currently seated at the right hand of God?  Is He coming back to rapture His bride?  The words of the centurion who was in charge of the crucifixion of Christ is a summary of all that He had processed on that day at Calvary.  "Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God." (Matthew 27:54)  

The beginning point of believing on Jesus carries with it a need to continue if you desire to be a disciple (one who both receives instruction from Jesus and who also obediently follows Him). Jesus said to those Jews which believed on Him, "If ye continue in my word then are ye my disciples indeed." (vs. 31)  I want to encourage every one of you who have believed on Jesus to become a disciple of Jesus. Being a disciple is what brings spiritual freedom and liberty into a person's life.  "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (vs. 32)  The Pulpit Commentary states: "Short of making the word of Jesus the resting place for both heart and intellect, full discipleship would be impossible. The true disciple receives and continues in the word of his Master."  

Yes, believing on Jesus is the beginning point, but will you continue in His Word and be His disciple?

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. Where does your journey with Christ begin according to John 8:30?

2. Would you describe yourself as one who has continued to live according to God’s Word? Explain.

3. What can you do today that will help you become a better follower of Christ?