Verse of the Day 10-18-22

Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life. John 5:24

Jesus here describes those who have eternal life (i.e., those who have a personal relationship with God and will live with him forever) and who will not be condemned, which is what the word translated as judged really means, as “whoever hears…and believes.” The verbs “hear” and “believes” are present participles, which show ongoing action (i.e., “whoever is, or keeps on, hearing and believing”). This means that the “hearing” and “believing” are not acts of a single moment, but actions that must continue. To “hear” in Biblical terms suggests listening and responding; it means putting into practice what you learn. Christ affirms that having eternal life is conditional on a living and growing faith rather than on a momentary decision at some point in the past.

The word “condemned” in older translations and “judged” or “judgement” in newer more modern translations is used in the sense of being headed for spiritual death. We as Christ’s followers will not be condemned with the rest of the world (1 Corinthians 11:32). However, we will still be held accountable for our actions and judged according to our faithfulness with the opportunities and resources God gave us while on earth.

Today’s Bible Readings:

Jeremiah 31:27-32:44, 1 Timothy 3, Psalm 88:1-18 and Proverbs 25:20-22