John 8:42-47

Jesus replied, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come from God and am now here. I have not come on my own initiative, but he sent me. Why don’t you understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot accept my teaching. You people are from your father the devil, and you want to do what your father desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he lies, he speaks according to his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I am telling you the truth, you do not believe me. Who among you can prove me guilty of any sin? If I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me? The one who belongs to God listens and responds to God’s words. You don’t listen and respond, because you don’t belong to God.”

In verses 31-32 Jesus says, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Jesus is addressing Jews who have believed Him, yet knowing their hearts He clarifies that they need to be set free. His audience is having a difficult time understanding why they need to be set free. Jesus responds that everyone who sins is a slave to sin. He confront them more by saying, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires.” Satan is in the business of twisting truth into lies and these folks are unable to see Jesus as the truth: the only way to God the Father. Holy Spirit, protect us from being unable to hear the truth. Reveal to us any corrupt allegiance that we have to evil, and let the light of Christ illuminate our hearts.