John 12:35-38

35 Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going.

36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” These things Jesus spoke, and departed, and was hidden from them.

37 But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him, 

38 that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke: “Lord, who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”

“They Did Not Believe in Him”

After the people questioned Jesus in verse 34, Jesus told them that the light would be with them a little longer. We all know who light is. God is light (1 John 1:5, Psalm 27:1). Since Jesus is God, then Jesus is light (John 1:1, 14, John 8:12). John 1:4 says that Jesus is the light of all of us. If light is within us, it is because we have Jesus in us through obedience to His Word. Jesus pleaded with the people to come into His light so they wouldn’t be blind. He wanted them to believe in Him and become sons (and daughters) of light. If they refused to believe in the light, then the darkness would overtake them, and they would be spiritually lost. This could be us as well. If we don’t stay on Jesus’ lighted path, then we will lose our way. Then comes the sad reality in verse 37. Even though Jesus had done all these signs in front of them, they still did not believe in Him. 

In verse 38, John quotes Isaiah 53:1. The questions Isaiah posed in that verse were not used as questions in John 12:38. John was not asking, “Who will believe our report?” He used this prophecy to show that God knew this would happen. Who will believe in Jesus? Very few of Jesus’ own countrymen will believe. To whom has Jesus been revealed? He has been revealed to everyone, yet they won’t believe in Him. God knew this would happen. He knew the world would reject His Son, but God loved the world anyway. He loves the world now. God’s love towards every human on earth is immeasurable. We can’t fathom it. Because God loves all of us so much, He doesn’t want any one of us to be lost (2 Peter 3:9). Think about how much we love our husbands, our children and grandchildren, our parents, and other loved ones and friends. We love them so much that we feel like we could burst, don’t we? We would do anything for them. But… the love we have towards our loved ones pales in comparison to the love that Jesus has for them and for each of us. No matter how much we love our people, Jesus loves them more. Let’s lay the people we love at Jesus’ feet. Let’s lay the world at Jesus’ feet. It’s the best thing we can do for them. 

God’s Plan of Salvation

Below is the plan God has outlined in His Word for humankind to receive His grace, which leads to salvation and an eternity with God in heaven. This plan is straight from the Bible. 

We have to hear His word. (Romans 10:17) 

Upon hearing the message of Jesus, we believe it. (Mark 16:16) 

Then, we confess Jesus’ name before men. (Matthew 10:32) 

Next, we repent of our sins. (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19) 

Finally, we are baptized into Christ for the remission of our sins.  (Acts 2:38, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:16, Romans 6:3-4, Acts 22:16, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Galatians 3:26-27) After baptism, God adds us to His church. (Acts 2:47)

Then, we must remain faithful until death or until Jesus returns, whichever comes first. (Rev. 2:10)

God means for everyone to learn what the Bible teaches about being saved. It only takes an open heart for Jesus and a willingness to put away what we’ve been taught in the past, and truly read what God’s Word says for ourselves… and then accept what it says and obey it. If I can help you in any way, I would love to! Are you walking in the light? Are you in Christ? Are you saved? If you aren’t, or if you’re not sure if you are, I’d love to help you. Are you a member of the Lord’s church, but are struggling spiritually in your walk with Christ? If you are… believe me, I’ve been there many times, and I’d love to help you. If you have any questions, please reach out. 

I love God’s Word. It challenges me to be better… to do more in His service. It is interesting and keeps me on the edge of my seat, wondering what will happen next. It gives me confidence and builds me up, and it brings me to my knees when my soul needs convicting! Thank you, Father, for the wonderful gift of Your Word!