The immediate context of this verse was the unbelief of the Jews. They knew from their Scriptures that the Messiah (Christ) was coming but they doubted if it was Jesus (John 7:40-42). So, Jesus said that once they “lift him up” (crucify Him) then they would know that He is the Messiah, because the crucifixion of the Messiah is written in their Scriptures, which of course was not understood at that time until after the crucifixion was carried out, and nobody knew at that time, except Jesus, that He would be crucified (John 8:28). Some believed Him when He said this but others didn’t. To those who believed Him He said if they continue believing His teachings they would truly be His disciples and they would know the truth, and the truth would make them free. The truth would set them free from their slavery to sin (verses 34-36). Earlier He said that those who do not even believe that He is the Messiah, they “will die in their sins” (verse 24) So, what is “truth”? In John 14:6 Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” This invitation by Jesus to come to Him to be set free from sin and death is not just for the Jews but for everyone! It’s for you and me!
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Scripture quotation is from the New American Standard Bible, Bible App by YouVersion.com
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Art courtesy of YouVersion Bible app. I am using the Bible App by YouVersion.com for my daily devotion. Download it now for your mobile device. https://j794q.app.goo.gl/nd4yPrGj7Hbhy9Kk8
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