Truth on Trial: Seeing Who You Are By Hearing “I AM” (John 8:48–59)

On Sunday, we will finish John 8, as the four-part trial of Jesus concludes in verses 48–59.

In review of the earlier proceedings, the first stage of the trial initiated a legal debate about Jesus’s claim to be the light of the world (8:12–20). This was followed by a second debate about the departure of that light and the coming of Christ’s cross (8:21–30). After this, Jesus confronted the false faith of his opponents (8:31–47), and now in the last section of the chapter, Jesus will be questioned again about his true identity (8:48–59).

This last section wraps up the whole chapter and shows how trials reveal the character of those involved. In Jesus’s case, we will see that he is not just the messiah, but God the Son eternal. And in his light, we will see more clearly the darkness of those who oppose him. Indeed, in John 8 the contrast between light and darkness is pronounced. And it helps us to discern the light and darkness around us and in our own hearts.

To prepare for Sunday, therefore, take time to read John 8. You may also find this blogpost about John 8 and this short YouTube mediation from N. D. Wilson helpful as you prepare for Sunday. Finally, pray that God would continue to shine his light upon us. We are a people immersed in darkness, within and without, and we need God’s gracious light.

I look forward to seeing you Sunday, as the Lord allows, and to worshiping the One who died and rose again to give us his eternal life and light.

For His Glory and your joy,
Pastor David
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Discussion & Response Questions: John 8:48 - 59
What is this discussion about between Jesus and the Jews?
What does it mean that “if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death”?
How are Abraham and the prophets’ deaths used as evidence against Jesus? How does Jesus counter this?
How does Abraham see Jesus’ day (v. 56)?
What does Jesus’ teaching reveal about the Father and Son?
How are the Jews incorrect in their understanding of Abraham as their father, and God as their father?
What does the shift from their “belief” (v. 31) to their words and actions in vv. 48-59 reveal about the crowd?
What do we learn about Jesus in this trial? What do we learn about ourselves?
In this discussion, there are many responses to Jesus. What are the responses that you observe? How ought we to respond to Jesus?