Introduction: Who is Jesus and what is His true identity that He was so bold to offer eternal life? Today we are talking about how Jesus’ true identity is connected to the search for eternal life.

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John 5:39-40 "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me! You are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life.”

You search the scriptures for eternal life. Jesus’ audience of religious leaders and teachers believed that following the holy scriptures gave them eternal life. They were following the rules given by God. If you broke the rules you were out. If you kept the rules you were in. The religious leaders and teachers would unfairly declare their own obedience to the law, and tell others they were sinners who broke the law. They were privileged as the holders of copies of the original declarations from God that were given to Moses. They also had copies of the writings of the prophets declaring what God required of them. Somehow the true message from God was no longer the pursuit. It was just about following the rules.

If following the rules doesn’t give eternal life, what does? More correctly, who does? Who gives eternal life? From Adam to that present time, all the authors and greatest prophets to ever live testified about a relationship with God that would last forever. Jesus boldly declared He is the One that the prophets were talking about. Only God can offer and give life that lasts forever. Jesus declared His true identity when He offered life to those listening to Him. There was a condition to His offer. Jesus required them to come to Him. The religious leaders didn’t believe Jesus when He said this to them. They declared in their hearts that there was no way this man could be God. Are you willing to come to Jesus to have life?

They were unwilling. They would not relinquish their participation in the system that gave them control of their futures. God was standing in front of them and they rejected Him. Is there something holding you back?

Prayer coaching: “Jesus, Help me to see You in all the scriptures, and believe the scriptures purpose is to testify about You. Jesus, I willingly come to talk with You. I want to love and follow You and have life that lasts forever with You.”