Knowing

Knowing

John 14:4-6, NLT

[Jesus said,] “And you know the way to where I am going.” 5“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

Setting the Scene

Thomas verbalized what all the disciples must have been thinking. They couldn’t understand Jesus’ words about going to “prepare a place” for them (John 14:2, NLT). Jesus answered by identifying himself not only as the disciples’ eternal companion but also as the very means for them to see the Father. He claimed to be the unique and ultimate resource when he said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Jesus’ response also showed that the destination is not a physical place but a person (the Father) and that the way to that destination is another person (the Son).

Jesus provides all we can know and need to know about God. He is the “way”—our path, bridge, transport, not just an example or road sign pointing the way. He is the “truth”—our source of intimate knowledge of the Father and the reality of all God promised. He is the “life,” now and forever—our only source of eternal life.

Jesus’ exclusive claim is unmistakable, forcing an unconditional response. His self-description invalidates alternative plans of salvation—he is the only way (“No one can come to the Father except through me”). Some say that a single way is too restrictive, too narrow. But the human condition is desperate. We are totally lost without him. That we have a way at all is evidence of God’s grace and love. Those objecting to having a single way are like people drowning at sea who are graciously thrown a lifesaving rope but who respond by insisting that they deserve a choice of several ropes along with the option of swimming to safety.

Getting Personal

How does knowing Jesus is “the truth” help you love the Lord “with all your mind” (Luke 10:27)?

How does Jesus being “the life” affect both your eternal future after death and your life here on earth?

This passage dispels all doubt about Jesus claiming to be divine and the only way to heaven. Knowing that Jesus is the only way should encourage us to live boldly for him.

Talking to God

Meditate on what it means for you that Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life.” Thank him for being your way to the Father, the truth to inform every aspect of your life, and the abundant life that will last forever.