AmazedSample

Amazing Faith

Each time I talk with a particular gentleman, I’m uplifted. With tears in his eyes, he's quick to share his gratitude to the Lord. He speaks with amazement at how the Lord could have rescued a man like him. I understand what he's feeling, and I’m sure you do too.

Irrespective of what your life was like before Christ, the peace, forgiveness, and promise of eternal life found in him are astonishing. To have a personal relationship with the living God makes you wonder how you ever lived life without Jesus. His grace is beyond amazing. Thus, the primary purpose of the greater works is for people to be amazed, recognize who Jesus is, and believe. This is revealed further in John 5.

In verse thirty-one, Jesus discusses the credibility of the testimonies given about him. He then states, Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it (the testimony of John the Baptist) that you may be saved” (John 5:34, NIV, emphasis mine). The closing words in that verse, “that you may be saved,” were heard by many, including those who were hostile to Jesus. But Jesus didn’t seek retribution for those opposing him. Instead, his desire was for people to become amazed at the “greater works” and be saved. Forgiven of their sins and given eternal life.

Two verses later, Jesus points to “the star witnesses” who gave a superior testimony than John the Baptist. “I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the works that the Father has given me to finish—the very works that I am doing—testify that the Father has sent me” (John 5:36). Thus, the “greater works” were to verify that Jesus had the Father’s “stamp of approval.” That the claims Jesus made were valid and, therefore, an invitation to make our hearts his home.

Reflection: What amazes you regarding the way Jesus transformed your life? How would you verbalize that to someone who's not yet a Christian?

John 5:31-40
John 6:27-38