Dear James, Jeff, and Jason and the Many Who Follow Your Lead

Embracing the Truth of Jesus: The Path to True Freedom and Love

In our recent broadcast, we explored the profound message found in John 8:31-32, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth. He states, “If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” This raises the question: what is the truth that Jesus refers to?

Many might interpret truth as the traditions and teachings of man or the written Word. However, I propose that the truth Jesus speaks of is Himself, as He declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Therefore, knowing Jesus—the embodiment of truth—leads to true freedom.

This freedom is not just from sin and death, but also from the bondage of our former selves. Knowing Jesus liberates us to embody the fruit of the Spirit, which is love. Jesus indicated that our discipleship is evidenced by our love for one another, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13. If we find ourselves operating in ways contrary to love, we may not fully grasp the truth.

Reflecting on my own journey, I recognized that in my early days as a Christian, I often engaged in hostility and judgment towards others. This behavior stemmed from a lack of intimate knowledge of the truth. As I grew in my understanding of Jesus, I began to see the error in my ways and the importance of embodying the fruit of the Spirit.

The message is clear: if our actions and words do not align with the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and so on—we may not be fully aligned with the truth. True freedom comes from knowing Jesus, and this knowledge should manifest in our lives as love and grace towards others. I urge my fellow believers to reflect on this and ensure that our words and actions are in harmony with the truth that sets us free.