Indeed, just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomever he wishes. The Father judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him. Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life. -John 5:21-24 NRSV
Jesus Christ is the life giver. In a later passage in John he speaks of giving followers an abundant life. Life is the issue. Not just a better life but a different life. A life transformed as we are born from above. An eternal life that survives our fleshly death. A life full of God. A life that experiences and gives a divine flavor of love.
In contrast much is written these days about judgment. Some even speculate about what the images in the book of Revelation mean. Some envision a judgment of believers in heaven. I love how Jesus says here that believers do "not come under judgment". It is a concept that may not agree with some theology but it is what Jesus said.
Thank you Lord Jesus Christ. You have given us life and rescued us from judgment.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
So thankful.
ReplyDelete