John 5:39-44 (NIV)
39 You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me,
40 yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
41 I do not accept glory from human beings,
42 but I know you do not have the love of God in your hearts.
43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him.
44 How can you believe since you accept glory from one another but do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
The True Source of Life
In this passage, Jesus reveals a profound truth: Even if we read the Scriptures and know that they contain the promise of eternal life, we will still not receive that life if we do not come to Jesus Himself. The Jewish people diligently studied the Scriptures, believing they held the key to eternal life, but they missed the core message of the Scriptures — Jesus Christ Himself.
Jesus said, “You refuse to come to me to have life.” This is a reminder to each of us. Have we ever tried to fill the emptiness in our hearts by relying on external actions, knowledge, or the approval of others, while neglecting the true source of life — Jesus Himself?
The Key to Eternal Life is Drawing Near to Jesus
Jesus is not just the source of eternal life; He came to give us God’s life. Our reading of the Scriptures, our prayers, and our spiritual practices should not merely be about accumulating knowledge, but about deepening our relationship with Christ and enjoying the life He offers. Only when we truly come to Jesus and receive the life He gives can we experience true transformation and renewal.
Rejecting Glory, Seeking the Father’s Will
Jesus emphasizes, “I do not accept glory from human beings.” His mission was not to meet human expectations, but to fully obey God’s will. In our daily lives, how often do we seek approval or glory from others? Yet Jesus teaches us that true faith does not depend on external glory but on seeking the glory that comes from God alone. When we stop relying on the opinions of others and commit to following God’s will, our lives will be set free.
In the quiet moments of reflection, let us remember: eternal life does not come from what we know or what others think of us, but from Jesus Himself. Let us come to Him, receive His life, and seek only the glory of God in all we do.
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