Word of Judgment

John 12:44-50

44 And Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. 45 And whoever sees me sees him who sent me. 46 I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. 47 If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. 48 The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me”.

Notes

The writer clearly explains that Jesus fulfilled numerous prophecies, affirming He is the Messiah, the promised Savior. Even the rejection and unbelief He faced were prophesied. Despite the many signs and miracles, many people did not believe. However, some did believe. Not everyone will accept the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, but those who do will have eternal life. Those who do not believe will be judged according to Jesus’ words.

1. Believing

   Once again, the Lord explained that whoever believes in Him believes in the Father. Aside from His unity with the Father, Jesus also reminded them that He is the light of the world, and those who believe will not remain in darkness.

   
   44 And Jesus cried out and said, “Whoever believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me. 45 And whoever sees me sees him who sent me. 46 I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness (John 12:44-46).

   Application: Believe. We believe that Jesus and the Father are one, not just one in heart and purpose. They are one in their essence but two different persons. There is no division between Father and Son.

2. Judgment

   The Lord warned all who hear but do not obey. Although His purpose in coming was to save, He made it clear that those who do not receive His words will be judged based on His words.

   47 If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. 48 The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day (John 12:47-48).

   Application: Escape judgment by following His words. There is no other way but to believe and obey. Well, there is another way, which is rejection and damnation. If one rejects His words, then His words will be used to judge such a person. Thus, we treat His every word with respect, honor, and awe.

3. Eternal Life

   The words of Jesus will judge all who reject the Son; His words come from the Father. Therefore, judgment comes from the Father and Son, and eternal life comes from the Father and Son.

   
   49 For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak. 50 And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me” (John 12:49-50).

   Application: Believe that the Father and Son are One. Let us believe in their work, which is the suffering, death, and resurrection. And because we believe, we obey His word. There is no other way but to follow the Lord.

Reflection & Discussion

1. Who will be judged?

2. What will be the basis of Christ’s judgment?

3. Based on the text, explain the unity of the Father and Son.