TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

Please read John 21:1–25

“This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.”

John 21:24

DEVOTIONAL

by Stephanie Reloj

Lee Strobel, an investigative journalist and atheist, set out to disprove Christianity after his wife’s conversion. Using his skills as a legal editor, Strobel conducted a thorough investigation, detailed in his book The Case for Christ. He interviewed experts and examined the reliability of New Testament accounts, including eyewitness testimonies. To his surprise, the evidence led him to conclude that the Gospel accounts were trustworthy and that Jesus Christ indeed rose from the dead.

The Gospel of John stands apart from the other three Gospels with its unique perspective and detailed, intimate accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry. John concludes his Gospel with a powerful declaration: he himself witnessed the events he described. This firsthand testimony underscores the authenticity and reliability of his account. Unlike Luke, who compiled reports from various eyewitnesses (Luke 1:3), John was there, seeing and experiencing everything directly.

John’s firsthand experiences with Jesus, including the miraculous catch of fish, the resurrection appearances, and intimate moments like breakfast on the shore, form the bedrock of his testimony. His closeness to Jesus lends profound credibility to his writings and offers us a direct connection to the events of the Gospel.

With this, we can apply the following truth:

Trust in the Eyewitness Account. John’s firsthand testimony assures us of the truth and reliability of the Gospel. We can have confidence that the events described are accurate and trustworthy. This assurance strengthens our faith, knowing that the foundation of our belief is based on the direct experiences of those who walked with Jesus.

Witness and Proclaim. Just as John shared his experiences of bringing others into fellowship with Christ, we are called to witness and proclaim what we have seen and heard in our own walk with Jesus. Our personal testimonies of His work in our lives can powerfully impact others and draw them to Him.

Deepen Fellowship. John’s writings emphasize fellowship with the Father and the Son. Our relationship with God is not just based on doctrine but on a living, dynamic fellowship that comes from experiencing Jesus firsthand. We are invited into a deep, personal relationship with Him, just as John experienced.

Live Authentically. The authenticity of John’s testimony challenges us to live authentically as followers of Christ. Our lives should reflect the reality of Jesus’ presence and work in us, offering a genuine witness to those around us.

 

PRAYER