[To the Jews, Jesus continued,] “No, you are imitating your real father.”
They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”
Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.”
Key Thought
Satan is behind evil in all of its forms, including the religious evil that sent Jesus to the cross. Make no mistake; Satan distorts, deceives, and lies. His goal is murder and destruction. Let’s not take him lightly. At the same time, let’s not cower before his threats. Jesus conquered him for us in the cross, and that victory was demonstrated through the resurrection. Let’s make sure that we stick with Christ, hold to his teaching, and live his truth. Let’s make it clear to the evil one that he has no hold on us. [1]
Today’s Prayer
Almighty and glorious Father, deliver me from the evil one for all power, all honor, and all glory are yours. Help me hold Jesus’ truth up as my example and live it fully in my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
1 Peter 5:8-91 John 3:10James 3:13-16; 4:7Ⓒ 1996-2022 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.