John 10-22-42
Have you ever made up your mind about someone before really getting to know them and understand them? Do we take time to observe what they are really about, rather than jumping to conclusions because they are different or we’ve heard rumors? I’m sure I have and then had to ask the Lord’s forgiveness and possibly the person’s.
In John 10 when Jesus said, “If I am not doing the works of my Father, then do not believe me” is a challenge to them. Once again we see Jesus surrounded by accusers demanding he tell them plainly who he was. In verse 23, again Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name bear witness about me.” In other words, if all of the miraculous things I’ve done don’t prove to you that I am who I say I am, then nothing I say will convince you. These were prideful “religious” leaders who didn’t want to believe because they wanted to be right. Jesus was a threat to their legalistic ideas. And Jesus was definitely different. Shouldn’t actions speak louder than words?
The word “works” in Greek literally means “actions” or “deeds” Jesus’ list of proofs for His critics referred to “works” in the sense of divine miracles (John 5:36). Still they did not believe him. The problem wasn’t that Jesus was unclear about who He was and where He came from. The problem was the religious leaders had hearts of unbelief they wanted to blame on Jesus.
Has any Christian you know done any or all of the miracles Jesus did? John won the highest praise of Jesus yet he didn’t do any “miracles.” He had a high character and the special work he did had a deep and lasting influence, that is undeniable. Love was at the center of John and Jesus’ relationship so much so that Jesus asked John to care for his own mother.
Paul contends that we are not saved by good works but we are saved for good works. Our “good works” don’t save us, they come as a result of believing Jesus is the son of God and putting our faith and trust in him. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
We were created for a relationship with our Abba Father, and good works are a result of that relationship. Good works might just mean being kind, forgiving someone who hasn’t apologized, praying (for someone who has been unkind to you); or things maybe only God knows about but they make a difference and are good works. Whether your “works” are below the radar or in plain sight for all to see, he delights in you. Give him all the glory..
Deb Hill