π‘ John 18 Devotional – "What is Truth?"
π Beginning with Prayer
Lord, as I come before You this morning, I quiet my heart and reflect on yesterday. Thank You for Your grace that carried me. Today, I open my heart and mind to Your Word in John 18. I expect to hear from You—speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.
πͺ 1. Summary of John 18
John 18 marks the beginning of Jesus' passion—the events leading up to His crucifixion. The chapter opens with Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, continues through His interrogation by the high priest, and ends with His appearance before Pilate. Key figures include Judas, who betrays Jesus; Peter, who denies Him; and Pilate, who questions Him. The atmosphere grows increasingly tense as Jesus’ hour approaches.
π 2. Faithful Interpretation of the Text
The narrative in John 18 is rich with symbolism and fulfillment of prophecy. Jesus willingly submits to arrest, showcasing His divine authority even in surrender. The scene with Peter’s denial contrasts human weakness with Christ's unwavering mission. Historically, Roman trials were complex, and John's Gospel highlights the injustice Jesus faced, even as it fulfilled the divine plan of redemption. Theologically, this chapter reveals Jesus as the true King whose kingdom is not of this world.
π 3. Key Words and Theological Themes
One key Greek phrase is “αΌΞ³Ο Ξ΅αΌ°ΞΌΞΉ” (ego eimi) in verse 5—Jesus' self-identification as “I am,” echoing God's name in Exodus 3:14. This declaration causes the arresting party to fall back, revealing His divine authority.
Another powerful theme is truth: Jesus tells Pilate He came to “testify to the truth” (v. 37), which prompts Pilate to ask the haunting question: “What is truth?”
This question sits at the heart of John’s Gospel. Jesus is introduced in John 1 as the Word and later proclaims in John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
This tells us that truth is not just a concept—it is a Person, and His name is Jesus.
π 4. What Is Truth?
Pilate’s question—“What is truth?”—echoes into our modern world, where truth is often seen as subjective or fluid.
π§ The World’s View of Truth (Relativism):
- “Your truth is not my truth.”
- “Truth depends on culture, time, or personal feeling.”
- “If it works for you, then it’s true for you.”
But such a view leads to confusion, inconsistency, and ultimately, a loss of moral compass.
✝️ Jesus’ Truth (Absolute):
- Jesus doesn’t just speak truth; He is the Truth.
- His words are eternal, unchanging, and grounded in God’s character.
- To be on the side of truth is to listen to Him (John 18:37b).
Truth is not merely something to know—it is Someone to follow. And that Someone stood silently in front of Pilate, ready to give His life for a world lost in lies.
π 5. Meditation and Application
Today, meditate on Jesus’ calm authority in the face of betrayal and suffering. He did not resist or accuse but remained rooted in His purpose.
- Are we willing to stand firm in truth, even when misunderstood or opposed?
- Are we like Peter—wavering under pressure?
- Or like Pilate—curious but unwilling to surrender control?
Let this passage challenge your faith and deepen your trust in God’s plan.
π 6. Memory Verse of the Day
John 18:37b (NIV):
“In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”
π§♀️ 7. My Reflection
As I sat with this passage, one thought kept returning:
Jesus, standing before worldly power, declares He is not of this world. He came to testify to the truth.
The world, represented by Pilate, asks “What is truth?” but doesn’t wait for an answer.
And I asked myself:
“Do I know the truth only intellectually, or do I live in it?”
“Am I truly listening to Jesus’ voice, or do I—like Pilate—turn away too quickly?”
Truth is not a philosophy. Truth is not a feeling.
Truth is a Person—Jesus.
And He is still speaking to those who are willing to listen.
π 8. Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for the courage and humility of Jesus in John 18. Help me to follow His example today. Give me boldness to stand for truth, grace to endure hardship, and wisdom to see Your hand even in trials. Strengthen me to live for Your kingdom that is not of this world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
π£ Call to Action
If today’s meditation spoke to your heart, share it with a friend or family member.
Let the truth of Christ’s journey to the cross strengthen your faith and deepen your walk with Him.
Ask yourself daily: Am I on the side of truth? Am I listening to His voice?
π Want to Go Deeper?
Explore more about John 18 and the meaning of truth through this trusted gospel-centered resource:
