Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31, 32 NLT)

Jesus spoke to different people in different ways. He spoke gently to the woman caught in adultery (although never condoning her sin), but He spoke harshly to those whose pride caused them to condemn her.

In the midst of that exchange, Jesus made this statement:
“If you desire to fully follow Me, you must be dedicated to My Word.”

Recently God has been teaching me the difference between a “decision” for Christ (at salvation) verses “discipleship.” A decision lasts a moment; discipleship is lifelong.

One characteristic of disciples is that we are committed to knowing, declaring, and living out God’s Word.

Many people misquote Jesus’ words, by only saying: “The truth will set you free.”

But Jesus actually said, “You shall KNOW the truth (God’s Word), and the truth (that you know) shall set you free.”

The pursuit of truth is the pursuit of a Person. Jesus said, “I am the Way, the TRUTH, and the Life.”

When I open myself to the truth of God’s Word I am on a journey toward freedom.

Father,
Thank You for the truth of Your Word, and the Truth, who is Your Son, Jesus. Would you set me free today from anything that has me bound?
In Jesus’ name,
Amen