John 8:31 (ESV)
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples
Bible Verses and Images by Subject
Bible Commentary:
John 8:31 is a Bible verse in the New Testament where Jesus is teaching believers how to be His disciples.
Let’s dig right into the word, “abide,” which is defined this way: to remain; to submit to and carry out.
Many of us have taken this Bible verse at face value: stay in the Word; read the Bible regularly to be a disciple of Christ. However, it is interesting to note that “abide” not only means to remain (read regularly), but “submit to and carry out.”
Reading the Bible is one thing, but submitting to and carrying it out is something else entirely.
Disciples of Christ
Now, let’s look at what Jesus says we are to submit to in John 8:31—His word. Some of the Greek meanings of “word” are fascinating. Take a look:
something said, reasoning, motive, the Divine Expression (that is, Christ): account, cause, communication, X concerning, doctrine, fame, X have to do, intent, matter, mouth, preaching, question, reason, + reckon, remove, say (-ing), shew, X speaker, speech, talk, thing, + none of these things move me, tidings, treatise, utterance, word, work.
We are to abide and submit to His word documented in the Bible, yes, but also His preaching, His work and His cause, among many others listed above, which are all around us every day.
Jesus Christ is the Divine Expression, or the Holy Spirit, who moves through all these things and people. Ephesians 4:6 says, “One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”
We know God is in everything, but that doesn’t mean we see Him in everything all the time. But if you are a disciple of Christ, submitting to His authority and leadership, He will reveal Himself to you.
It might be a kind word from a co-worker on a difficult day, or a beautiful rose bush you notice driving home from work. It might be a word spoken from a preacher at church that touches your heart, or an unexpected gesture by your spouse at home.
The Divine Expression
We know the Divine Expression when it shows up because it shines with His radiance, like a gentle whisper directly to our heart. He knows us better than we know ourselves, and it pleases the Father to delight His children in ways that are meaningful to us.
When we recognize the beauty of His Divine Expression (Holy Spirit) calling to us, submission comes easy. His love far exceeds any apprehensions or insecurities we might have.
We are fully equipped in His love. He is all we need. There is no inadequacy in Jesus Christ. There is no greater station in life than to be a disciple of Christ.
Study the Bible verse of John 8:31 to know the sights and sounds of true joy and discipleship in the Holy Spirit of Christ.
