"Continuing Involves Commitment" (John 8:31-32)

Our passage says, "So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, 'If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free'" (John 8:31-32). Many misquote this verse by saying, "the truth will set you free!" But that is not what the passage says! The passage says, "knowing the truth is what makes you free!" This passage reveals what's needed for true discipleship. Jesus said, "If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine." Perseverance in obedience to God's Word (Scripture) is the evidence of genuine faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior. Let me say that continuing in Jesus' word involves commitment to Jesus as Lord and Savior. It's at this point that I'll describe what commitment is and what it does. There is no continuing without commitment! When I talk about commitment, I'm not talking about agreement with ideas, principles, or certain procedures. Commitment is so much more! Commitment is a vital and serious issue that involves the movement of our life's direction, and if commitment is genuine, it's not just a matter of convenience! According to our passage, commitment leads to appropriate behavior. It's not wisdom to talk about commitment without considering the behavior that's involved as a natural consequence! In other words, commitment is to bring forth a behavior that corresponds with the commitment itself. If a person is committed to following Jesus, action will follow that will be such as would enhance the relationship with Jesus! Jesus tells us how to enhance our relationship with Him by saying, "If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine." When a person is committed, this commitment brings direction to all of his or her life! It becomes the directional core of his or her behavior. Following Christ is characterized by pain, suffering, and disappointment, as well as peace, joy, and pleasure. Real commitment can and will bring purpose to the whole of these experiences! Real commitment to Jesus brings access to true freedom! True freedom is living life the way life is meant to be lived, with Jesus as Lord and Savior! True freedom is to live as Christ lived, because He is the freest Man who ever lived! As a matter of fact, Jesus is the only FULLY FREE human being who has ever lived! Let us continue in His Word! Your move. Be encouraged!