Daily Devotion, March 7, 2021

 

Devotion:

Read John 7:25-31.

The Gospel writers tell us that when Jesus was engaged in his public ministry, people were divided on whether to believe his claims about being the Messiah. They heard differing opinions from their leaders as well. Even John the Baptist felt the need to ask Jesus about it at one point. Some people, both Jews and Gentiles, believed; others did not.

Verse 31 of this passage tells us one of the criteria some were using to determine his legitimacy. Here is how the Common English Bible translates that verse: “Many from that crowd believed in Jesus. They said, ‘When the Christ comes, will he do more miraculous signs that this man does?’” The writer of this Gospel states that was the primary criteria he was using to try to convince his readers of Jesus’ divinity (20:30-31).  

Still today, we all have to make decisions about what and who is “legit.” In some situations, only time will tell and we simply have to wait and see. Sometimes you can tell by the “signs” of how their life or ministry is impacting the lives of others  And according to this Gospel, here are a couple of other questions to ask when trying to determine if a person or group truly represents God. Are they more about judging people than loving them? (John 3:16-17) Do they break down barriers between people? (4:7-10)

  

Whether people of the first century or the twenty-first, we all have to decide for ourselves about whether those who claim to represent God are legitimate. What criteria do you use?

Personal Worship Option:

Pray for discernment in determining the legitimacy of others’ claims about God. Pray also for wisdom and courage in helping others to know that the person and way of Jesus Christ is legit. They can believe in him.