March 7 Daily Devotional

Monthly Theme:

In March we read the gospel of John. John wrote his gospel so that his readers would know and believe the claims of Jesus. Those who do have everlasting life here and now.

Bible Reading:

John 7:40–52

Bible Text:

Thus the people were divided because of Jesus (John 7:43).

Devotional:

The gospel of John answers the big question: Who is Jesus? John promises that everyone who believes Jesus' claims and the Bible's testimony will enjoy life, real life.

The question about Jesus' true identity is not only the nub of John's story—it's the most important question anyone could ever raise. Shame on us if we can get excited about all sorts of issues and questions that don't really matter while many people, including some of our friends, have no idea who Jesus is.

When Jesus lived in Palestine, the question of his identity divided the Jewish nation. Long before, God had promised Moses—-Israel's greatest teacher and prophet—that he would raise up another great prophet (Deut. 18:18). Could Jesus be that prophet? According to John 7:40, some were inclined to believe so.

Others believed Jesus was actually the Messiah, the Son of David, who would have an everlasting throne (v. 41). Others objected, pointing out that the Messiah was supposed to come from Bethlehem, whereas Jesus, they said, came from Nazareth. Apparently they did not know Jesus' place of birth.

Who is Jesus? Everyone must give a personal answer to that question. That's the first step. Then we must do all we can to make this question the central issue in all towns and nations. For by the answer to this question all people will be judged.

Andrew Kuyvenhoven's Daylight, a modern devotional classic, was originally published in 1994. This edition is copyright by Faith Alive Christian Resources, from whom may be ordered Daylight, the predecessor of Twilight.

A man of many accomplishments, Andrew Kuyvenhoven is probably best known for his contributions to Today (formerly The Family Altar), a widely-used monthly devotional booklet associated with the Back to God Hour. Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations for this edition of Twilight are from the New International Version

Be sure to read the "Preface" and the "Acknowledgments" by the author.