Is Jesus For Real?

Inspired by Ray Stedman's "Immeasurably More"

"Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own."
— John 7:17

Jesus made an astonishing statement: if we want to know whether His words are true, we should do what He says. The proof of His teaching doesn’t come from debate or intellectual argument; it comes from experiencing its truth through obedience.

Imagine you’ve been handed a treasure map, and the only way to confirm its authenticity is to follow it. You might hesitate at first, doubting its legitimacy. But with each step—whether crossing rivers or digging in unexpected places—you discover that the map leads you exactly where it promised. The treasure isn’t just at the end; it’s also in the growing confidence that the mapmaker knew exactly what they were doing.

In the same way, Jesus calls us to act on His words: repent, believe, and obey. When we take those steps, we begin to see God at work in and through us, confirming the truth of His teaching. It’s not about mere knowledge; it’s about the transformation that happens when we live out what we’ve received.

This principle explains why some grow rapidly in their faith while others remain stagnant. Those who act on what they learn from Scripture experience firsthand the life-changing power of God. They see His fingerprints in their relationships, their trials, and their victories. Meanwhile, those who hear but do not act remain in a cycle of spiritual infancy, missing the depth and beauty of walking with Christ.

The choice is ours: Will we hold back, questioning from a distance, or will we take a step of faith and discover the truth through living it?

A Prayer of Trust and Confidence

Lord Jesus,
We thank You for revealing Yourself in ways that go beyond words. Thank You for inviting us to step out in faith, knowing that as we obey, You confirm Your truth in our hearts and lives. We trust You to guide us with each step, showing us the treasure of knowing You more deeply. Thank You for giving us everything we need to follow You. We rest in Your promises and rejoice in the life You bring. Amen.

Final Thought

Following Jesus is like embarking on the journey of a lifetime with a perfect guide. Each step reveals more of His faithfulness and the richness of life in Him. As we walk in obedience, we don’t just learn about the truth—we live it.