5th week in Lent, Wednesday – 1st April 2020 – John 8,31-42
Knowing God of truth
The Greek word ‘aletheia’ meaning ‘truth’ is a common word in Fourth Gospel, occurring twenty-five times; while in synoptic Gospels, it appears altogether only seven times. In John, truth referred to Jesus’ teaching, Jesus himself (14,6) and what the Spirit would continue to teach as well (16,13). It does not refer to a philosophical ideal or the opposite of falsehood. Truth is knowledge of God as revealed in Jesus’ own self. Knowing this ‘truth’ is knowing God, made present in Jesus, who is “the way, the truth and the life” (14,6). Jesus makes this clear in 8,36, when he substitutes “the Son” for “the truth”, saying that the Son makes people free. As “Son” and “truth”, Jesus himself is the very revelation of God (1,18; 5,19-27; 14,8-10). Believing in Jesus was just the beginning point. Abiding in the truth of Jesus’ teaching was the key (8,32). Remaining connected to or dwelling in him and his message is the true measure of discipleship.
